It is not too late to remove trees that could present problems for turf health over the winter. Optimal winter sunlight penetration is equally important for warm-season grasses, like bermudagrass or zoysiagrass, as it is for Poa annua.
Exposing turf areas to as much sunlight as possible is best for both winter and summer performance. When evaluating trees on a golf course, we typically try to provide maximum morning sunlight during the growing season. However, when evaluating winter shade, the best option is to remove all trees that block sun and could lead to turf decline. Full sun in the morning followed by midday shade could start the melting process of snow or ice early and then lead to a quick refreeze. An extra few hours of afternoon shade during a rapid freeze event can be the difference between life and death for turf areas.
Northeast Region Agronomists:
Adam Moeller, director, Green Section Education – amoeller@usga.org
Elliott Dowling, agronomist – edowling@usga.org
Paul Jacobs, agronomist – pjacobs@usga.org
Information on the USGA’s Course Consulting Service