HIGHLAND CC GROUNDS

ISTRC report- In the late fall we had a core sample test done by the International Sports Turf research Center. This method of testing is new to Highland. Through this process we are able to measure the percentages of organic matter, bulk density and among other things the rate of water percolation. With this data in hand we can evaluate exactly how our current cultural practices are working. As a result of this test we have discovered that the organic matter percentages in the top three inches of our greens are  still too high.  At this point we do not suffer any direct deficiencies as a result. We do however need to address this issue proactively, before we risk the health and playability of our greens. In this state water and air are limited in their ability to reach below the three inch mark. This limits root growth as roots need both air and water to thrive. Our greens are equipped with internal drainage added by the club a number of years ago. If these percenta...

As I write this post there are light flurries in the air and the temperature is hovering around 0C. Technically spring is here, but from the conditions on the golf course you would never know it. Currently there is still some snow on the golf course and the soil temperatures are still well below the average for this time of year. Spring is always a waiting game with removing covers from our greens. The ideal weather trend for removal is daytime highs nearing 5 or 6C and nighttime lows above 0C.  This type of trend is something that we have not yet seen this spring. We will continue to monitor the forecast and day to day conditions as we plan our attack. Once the covers are removed, the greens need time to acclimate and firm up to the point that they can handle traffic from both foot (for play) and equipment (for necessary cultural practices). As the opening of the golf course is always a hot topic at this time of year, I have copied in a portion of...

It is hard to believe that one year ago we were getting ready to open the golf course by this weekend. It is amazing how different the weather can be from year to year. As the snow started to melt last week we were able to evaluate most of the turfgrass from a visual standpoint. We are happy to report that there is very little disease activity on all playable areas. The greens that we can see are looking good as well, but we are not out of the woods yet. Ideally we would like to see the snow melt slowly and the temperatures warm up slowly as well (as opposed to a warm/cold/warm/cold trend). This would allow us to remove the covers and be confident that colder temperatures are done for the spring. Below I have included my Superintendent's update from our March Green Committee meeting. Late fall and Winter Activities - Bunker work- Greenside bunkers on #5, #10 and #13 have been relined with Bentofix and re-sodded. The bunkers will remain out of play until the sod had knitt...

Despite the unpredictable weather that the last month has brought the London area, our department has been successful in working away at a number of winter preparation tasks. Greens: Early in the fall we performed a deep verticut on our greens to reduce organic matter and increase the potential for sand incorporation (during the topdressing process). This practice worked out very well and we will be utilizing it again in the spring of 2013. Our fall Deeptine/Vertidraining of greens was completed as well. This process opens up deep 8" channels to allow for compaction relief, air and water flow as well as sand incorporation deep into the profile. As always this process was preceded with a generous topdressing. This week we will be applying our Snow Mold preventative fungicide. We will also be applying Manganese Sulphate and a Magnesium product to help elevate these nutrient levels in the soil in preparation for next season. If the weather permits we will be applying one m...

A few reminders for our members as the season slowly comes to a close... October 31st will be the last day of play at our Practice Facility and Short Game Area. November 1st & 2nd we will be performing our heavy topdress and Deep Tine aerification of Greens. Pins will be in the approaches for this process. November 3rd will be the last day of washroom availability at both the Half Way Hut and the washrooms on the 15th hole. November 5th & 6th we will be blowing out the irrigation system. This can be a rather loud and startling process for members. November 18th will be the last day of play for the 2012 season. Hopefully the weather improves and our members can get out and enjoy the golf course over the next few weeks...play golf!

Old location at #5 Green As part of our tree management program we are planning on transplanting a few trees this fall. Some time ago a collection of trees was planted in an effort to create division between greens, tees and fairways. The reality is that when trees are planted in close proximity to greens, tees and fairways it is inevitable that they are going to cause turf health issues and require removal. In an effort to save these trees for the long term and avoid removal, we are going to transplant these trees and utilize them as key trees in the future. We have utilized a local contact to do the transplanting with a tree spade. Yesterday we transplanted a Red maple that was to the right of the 5th Green. This tree was very close to the green and once mature, would have blocked morning sunlight, therefore affecting the health of the green (then requiring complete removal). The new home of the Maple is on the right sid...

On Tuesday, October 9th we will be Deep verticutting our greens. This process will help to remove any thatch and organic matter. Following the clean up process we will be topdressing with sand to fill the channels/lines. The sand incorporation also helps to dilute the organic matter and provide a firm healthy putting surface. On the following day we will be rolling the greens to help incorporate the sand and also smooth the greens out. While we are working on the greens, the pin will be put out in the approach. Once the clean up and topdressing in done, the greens will reopen for play. As always, our member`s patience and understanding is appreciated.