As we enter the time of year when the most stressful weather conditions are typically experienced, every maintenance decision must be carefully examined to determine what its overall impact will be on the turf. Many superintendents will likely face situations at some point over the next few months where choosing to do nothing will be the best decision.
High heat, sweltering humidity and excessive rainfall each place the turf under a considerable amount of stress. Unfortunately, these conditions are often experienced at the same time during the summer months. Nothing can be done to control the weather, but decisions can be made to reduce the amount of mechanical stress that is placed on the turf.
With expectations for golf course playing surfaces to perform at a high level every day, it can be difficult to hold off on certain maintenance practices that would place too much additional stress on the turf during difficult weather conditions. However, knowing when to show restraint is a quality all successful superintendents possess.
Once a decision is made to postpone certain practices – e.g., mowing greens – be prepared to communicate with decision-makers and golfers at your course about why it was made. Taking the time to be proactive with communication is always more effective than reacting to questions that come later.
With most of July and all of August still to come, it is likely that a decision to refrain from normal maintenance practices will have to be made more than once before the season is over. Playing defense through the most stressful time of year will go a long way in preserving turf health.
Central Region Agronomists:
Paul Jacobs, agronomist – pjacobs@usga.org
Zach Nicoludis, agronomist – znicoludis@usga.org