As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise across the Southeast, superintendents shift their focus from protection to preparation. The time change is a terrific opportunity to reset priorities as we break dormancy and start to show signs of new growth on the course. Ornamental grass beds are one area where proper early-spring care sets the tone for playability, aesthetics and plant health throughout the year.
An important spring task with ornamental grasses is trimming. These grasses should be cut back now to approximately one-third of their existing height and then rounded to give them a manicured appearance that promotes even regrowth. Avoid scalping ornamental grasses unless the species specifically requires it. In general, evergreen ornamental grasses should not be cut back as this can injure them. Instead, remove any unsightly or overgrown leaves by hand. Spring cleaning of ornamental grass plantings can also include removing debris and fallen leaves and loosening compacted pine straw.
This is also an ideal time to redefine bed edges and get ahead of weed pressure. After the cleanup, apply a preemergence herbicide like granular indaziflam (Specticle G) as the soil temperatures begin to rise for seasonal weed control. Postemergence sprays with combination products like 2,4-D + aminopyralid (NativeKlean) will combat breakthrough weeds that appear later.
From a playability standpoint, routine maintenance of ornamental grasses is often necessary. Overgrown grass beds can swallow errant shots, slow pace of play and create frustration. Strategic trimming creates visible sight lines and room for players to retrieve golf balls without damaging plants. Beds that are too dense not only hinder play, but also complicate maintenance.
A well-timed knockdown spring trim sets the stage for lighter maintenance in late summer, where you only need to clean up plants encroaching onto the turf line. When ornamental grass beds are trimmed and properly maintained, they enhance both the beauty of the course and the overall golfer experience. As you spring forward with your course management plans, remember to set aside time for the details off the centerline of the golf holes as well.
Southeast Region Agronomists:
Jordan Booth, Ph.D., senior director, USGA Course Consulting Service – jbooth@usga.org
Chris Hartwiger, director, Agronomy – chartwiger@usga.org
Chris Neff, senior agronomist – cneff@usga.org
Mitch Leininger, agronomist - mleininger@usga.org