COURSE MAINTENANCE

Ben Kozlovsky

most golfers have heard the statement, “The greens have nematodes” at some point So, what exactly are nematodes and how do they affect the health and playability of the greens? There are three types of nematodes that can affect turfgrass: root knot, sting, and lance:

Root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp ) are the most common type found in turfgrass They are small, microscopic worms that infect the roots of the plant and cause swelling and distortion, which can lead to reduced water and nutrient uptake, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves According to the University of Florida, population densities of 200-500 nematodes per 100 cc of soil can cause significant damage to turfgrass roots However, in some cases, population densities as low as 50-100 nematodes per 100 cc of soil can cause damage

Sting nematodes (Belonolaimus longicaudatus) are larger than root knot nematodes and can cause damage to the root system of the plant They feed on the root tissue and can create holes and tunnels, which can lead to water and nutrient loss, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves According to the University of Georgia, population densities of 10-20 nematodes per 100 cc of soil can cause significant damage to turfgrass roots

Lance nematodes (Hoplolaimus spp ) are like sting nematodes and can cause damage to the root system of the plant They feed on the root tissue and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and reduced water and nutrient uptake According to the University of California, population densities of 100-200 nematodes per 100 cc of soil can cause significant damage to turfgrass roots de population and promote healthy wing remedies can be employed: Before applying any treatments, it's ear understanding of the nematode s present in the soil This etermine the appropriate course of

Regular cultural practices such as irrigation can help reduce s by creating an unfavorable cal treatments such as nematicides nematode populations althy turfgrass: If damage has mportant to focus on reurfgrass This can be done through ght, fertilization, and proper atement is true, our greens do have nomy department is employing all dial measures such as nematode ces, and nematicides to reduce the s, establish and maintain a healthy g , p ng healthy root growth

Upcoming Events

Trent Peddy

Golf

Members,

Can you believe we are almost a quarter of the way though 2023. Time flies when you are having fun. Speaking of fun I am calling all ladies as sign ups for our ladies member member are officially open. So make sure to get registered as you are not going to want to miss this event.

In the month of March we have a lot of fitting days on the books: Titleist will be here on March 4th, Taylormade on March 15th, and Callaway on March 24. Make sure to be on the look out for the links in order to get signed up as appointments have been selling out fast.

Our race for the Black Hawk Player of the year is starting to take shape. Our next event that goes towards the Black Hawk player of the year is the 2 man Best Ball “The Flying V.” So make sure to go to the member tournament portal and get yourself signed up as you don’t want to miss out on earning some valuable points.

We would like to welcome Nicki Oesch back to Black Hawk Country Club! She has begun her new role as a Teaching Professional at the Club Nicki is currently a Level 1 PGA Apprentice and is eager to help you with your golf game To book a lesson with her, please contact her at noesch@bhawkcc com

Golf Events

Titleist Fitting Day

March 4

Taylormade Fitting Day

March 15

Callaway Fitting Day

March 24

The Flying V | 9:00am

March 18

Ladies Member/Member

March 31-April 1

For more information, please email: Trent Peddy tpeddy@bhawkcc com