Two weeks ago we began a process to improve conditions on approaches and tees on the golf course.
During the last two years we have been experimenting with this process on the Pfluger course and at the chipping green. There is some temporary discoloration of the turf. It leads to the eventual death of undesired plants in these areas.
Our goal is to provide a uniform surface for playability with rye and bluegrass. When the golf course was built, most likely the approaches and tees were seeded with old bent grasses.
Over time, ryes and blue grasses have taken over from overseeding. Some aggressive bentgrases remain in many areas. However, they are quite stubborn. The bents are spongy, thatchy and inconsistent with the rest of the approach or tee.
We are using a very safe herbicide that slowly phases out the bentgrass over a month. This herbicide also cleans up any other weeds such as dandelion, clover and crabgrass.
These plants turn white and the process of photosynthesis is interrupted leading the plant to an eventual death.
Last week we aggressively verticut these areas providing avenues for new ryegrass seed for new growth.
You will notice temporary discoloration of the "good grass". Soon you will realize the demise of bentgrass patches throughout our tees and approaches. The new seed will fill in these areas nicely. By the next golf season, all of these areas will be healed in nicely for play.
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