This past week can best be described as difficult. A stalled frontal boundary has kept persistent rain over our area, and while the total rainfall has only been 2.45 inches, the near-constant showers have impacted every aspect of our operations.
The biggest challenge has been mowing. With limited opportunities to get equipment out, excessive growth has lead to additional clippings and occasional scalping. At the same time, we are still in recovery mode from last week’s aerification and WetJect applications, which require sunlight and dry conditions to heal properly. Unfortunately, we have had at least a 50% reduction in sunlight for seven consecutive days. That has slowed turf growth by the same margin, delaying the recovery process and making it more difficult to work sand into the canopy. Instead, it is sticking to the surface and equipment and about everything else it touches.
Under normal conditions, the course typically recovers in 3–4 weeks following aerification. Given the slow start caused by this weather pattern, recovery may take as long as 6 weeks. Our goal is to get through this stretch as efficiently as possible, and we are optimistic conditions will improve as we move toward October.
Sand Injection on Greens
On Friday, a contractor completed sand injection on the greens. This process uses air and water pressure to pull sand from a hopper and inject it into the soil profile, creating vertical channels.
Our soil samples revealed approximately 3.5 inches of organic matter in the greens. To penetrate this layer, sand was injected to a depth of 4 inches. Excessive organic matter slows air and water movement, but these sand channels restore porosity and help the greens “breathe” again. This investment will improve long-term turf health and performance.
Radio Road Entrance Fencing Project
Also beginning last Friday was an important community project at the Radio Road entrance. The ficus hedge that had long served as a border was removed, and by Monday a new fence was installed. This is the first phase of a larger plan to enhance the entrance.
The next steps will include installing new gates and fencing between them, followed by landscaping improvements. When complete, this area will present a much more attractive and welcoming appearance for the community.
Despite the challenges posed by this extended period of rain and cloud cover, progress continues both on the course and within the community. We appreciate your patience and support as we navigate these conditions.
I look forward to seeing everyone on the course, and as always, if you have any questions, flag me down or shoot me an email. I always enjoy talking turf!
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