For the past couple of seasons we have been working on tightening up and firming up our approaches. Through a number of cultivation procedures (aeration, verti-cutting, lower mowing heights and topdressing) we are seeing some results. This week we topdressed our approaches with a rather heavy application of straight sand. The theory with topdressing approaches is the same as with greens, we will dilute the thatch with sand and create a nice sand based playing surface. This will create an area in front of the greens that will be consistent, firm and tight. Here is a picture of Paul putting down some sand on the 4th hole.
The fall is a great time to perform a number of necessary cultural practices. Our goal is to amend the upper portion of the greens surface with enough sand to help insulate the crown through the winter as well as removing and diluting organic matter. Below you will find a schedule of cultural practices that we aim to complete before the covers go on and the snow flies!!! Wednesday, Sept. 30th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt Tuesday, Wednesday October 13/14-Course Closure full core aeration with heavy topdressing. October 19th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt October 26th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt November 2nd- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt November 9th- Deep Verticut, followed by a sufficient topdressing. November 16th- Post Course Closure, Heavy topdressing followed by Deep tine aeration. Of course this is all in hope that the weather cooperates...happy fall!
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