FROM THE GREEN & MCCONNELL GOLF After a handful of delays due to rainy weather conditions the final step of the conversion process began on Tuesday, June 2nd and was complete by the end of the day on June 3rd. Hard to believe that we’d be ready for our first cut within two weeks, unfortunately we found ourselves in the midst of another wet period that delayed the process again. Our plan was to make first cut on Monday, June 15. Instead I’m writing this newsletter, as we’ve already recorded over 1” of rain. Initially the most important input is water and lots of it, this gets the process started. Fertilizer applications, light topdressings and rolling also part of the process from the beginning. Typically first cut is made between 10 and 14 days after sprigging, at a height between .180” and .200”. Ultradwarf Bermudagrasses grow laterally and need to be cut early and often to facilitate the desired lateral growth. We will attempt to get down to the desired height of cut of .125” relatively quickly, as this will help cover the greens and get ready for play. Semi-daily inputs of fertilizer will continue for the first month or so, these applications are designed to push growth throughout the process. Continuous adjustments to topdressing will continue throughout this time period as well. We will also begin to incorporate light grooming and or add brushes to the front of the greensmowers, this will allow us to stand up as much material as possible to be removed. At this point we are 50/50 on the need for a light aerification prior to opening, this will depend on the smoothness of the greens. A 1 ton roller will be rented and utilized at some point during the grow-in for the same reason. Typically the entire conversion process lasts 10 to 12 weeks, depending on weather. Our goal is to take full advantage of the course closure by making adjustments to mow patterns and contours on certain holes, we will also be focused on major cultural practices throughout the course. Limited traffic in conjunction with cultural practices such as aerification and verticutting will have both short and long term benefits for the golf course. In fact we are already seeing some recovery in our most heavily trafficked areas and better definition between cuts. Our goal is to have the best possible playing conditions not only for the short term but also moving forward. This is why improvements to greens and bunkers were so important. We realize that these closures are inconvenient and hope that you will all remain patient during the process as our goal is better playing conditions. If you have any questions about the renovation process or anything else please do not hesitate to contact me and please stay safe. Sincerely, Ryan Gamble Golf Course Superintendent, ryan.gamble@grandedunes.com
Below you will see the process of preparing, springing, and growing in the greens. Each picture is of #18 green over a three week period.
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