Course Conditions
The recent warm temperatures have provided us all with an early taste of spring. Now that the snow has finally melted, we are able to view Hidden Glen’s turf for the first time in months. At times, the first viewing of turf can be an anxious moment for turf managers. In years when ice is prevalent or when little snow cover persists, damage to turf from either ice formation or exposure to the cold winter temperatures can be devastating. I am pleased to report that damage from either of these issues is present. Additionally the application of plant protectants last November has proven successful—no cold weather disease, commonly referred to as snow mold, is present on any green, tee, or fairway turf. Overall, the course has come the winter in exceptional condition. We, as the caretakers of the golf course, are eager to put the hours of equipment maintenance, agronomic planning, and staff training to the test and begin the season.
Course Opening
Just as the golf course staff, pro shop staff, and clubhouse staff are all excited and ready to begin the season, so too are Hidden Glen’s members. In early springs such as the one that we are currently experiencing, the long term health of the golf course is of utmost importance. Three things must occur prior to the course opening in order to make sure no long term damage is done to the golf course:
- All frost must leave the ground.Walking on frozen or semi-frozen turf is especially damaging to the turf as it can shear of the turf’s roots, compromising the plants ability to withstand hot summer days.
- The plants must begin to actively grow and the soil must firm up.Without and actively growing turfgrass plant, the greens, tees, and fairways are not able to recover from traffic, both foot and golf car, as well as from ball marks and divots.Most everyone has seen the irreversible damage caused by playing on a ball field or soccer field early in the season prior to favorable growing conditions.The golf course is no different.
- Night time temperatures must become more moderate.In preparing the golf course for opening, some mowing must occur, at least on putting greens.The mowing is necessary to smooth and clean the putting surfaces.Mowing stimulates new growth which is very sensitive to cold temperatures and freezing damage.
After a comprehensive walk of the golf course, I am pleased to report that things are progressing nicely. The forecasted warmth will continue to assist in the course’s ability to meet the requirements for opening. Even though we are not quite there yet, current indicators point to an earlier than normal opening. Golf course staff will closely monitor conditions and the upcoming forecast and will work closely with the pro shop staff to determine an opening date. A small amount of patience now will go a long way to producing excellent conditions for the upcoming season. We look forward to seeing everyone again very soon.