Tree Care

Pruned lower limbs on a young pine tree



Prior to the recent snowfall, we have been able to attend to some of the trees around the property. There is still much to be accomplished, but we are getting out there when the weather allows.

Trees and turf do mix when maintained correctly. Much like turfgrass, it is important to plant and maintain trees correctly. It is easy for tree care to get lost in the shuffle, we don't play golf on trees (At least most of us don't). Determining the proper species and choosing the right environment of a tree is only the first couple of steps to a lengthy tree care program.

Trees need to be provided with adequate amounts of water and nutrients. Some trees require pesticide applications to prevent insect or disease invasion. Healthy trees frequently require pruning of deadwood and broken limbs. Precise pruning allows the plant to send nutrients to only healthy areas of the tree instead of wasting them on dead or damaged areas. Removing low or damaged limbs allows for better sunlight, air movement and irrigation coverage for the tree root zone and turf below. Safety concerns will be addressed with low limbs that could puncture a golfer. Playability will be improved when a golfer can maneuver around trees without the risk of being injured or interfered.

Let's face it; some trees just don't make it. For whatever reason, wind, lightning, mismanagement, old age, poor soils, or poor location eventually all trees meet their demise. The dying process for trees varies, but it can take a few years for a tree to look dead. It is crucial that we remove any dead or dying trees for the safety of golfers.