Agronomy Department and Course Weekly Update

March 16, 2016

Harrell’s Fertilizer Company applied our first bulk fertilizer application on Monday and finished on Tuesday. This first spread is critical for the Bermudagrass to wake up and begin growing. This fertilizer coupled with the recent warm trend we should see the fairways, tees, approaches and roughs begin to green up considerably over the next few weeks. To be honest, I can’t remember the last time we were mowing rough in March but we will take it!

Medalist finished the 17^th hole bunker renovation on Tuesday and it turned out great. The construction process has moved onto the 16^th hole and will remain there for at least 7-10 days. I am waiting on a PDF from Billy Fuller that will show the new changes and once I receive the PDF, I will share with the membership. The two biggest changes on the 16^th hole will be the removal of the back bunkers on #16, they will be converted into a “grass” type bunker. There will also be the installation of a new fairway bunker on the left hand side (approx. 185 yds from the green). This new bunker will frame the hole and add a strategic element for the longer hitters. It is exciting to see the new changes on the course and the new bunkers are also extremely maintenance friendly!

This recent warmup has also brought the greens back to life. Since the greens are growing we have resumed our weekly topdressing applications. This topdressing process is critical for UltraDwarf Bermudagrass greens, not only for playability but it also holds key agronomic benefits. From a playability standpoint, the sand smoothes the putting surface, a smooth surface turn increases ball roll/speed and reduces/eliminates mower scalping. Did you know that applying light topdressings is the best way to gain ½ to ¾ of a foot in ball roll?  The sand also dilutes the thatch layer that builds in UltraDwarf bermudagrass, this reduction provides a firmer surfaces. So before I even mention the boring agronomic benefits, this practice provides a smoother, firmer and faster putting surface for the membership. I believe the positives from light topdressings just sold itself on why it is necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at kmacdonald@valleycrest.com and for more information and plenty of pictures and videos follow us on Twitter @stivescc_vcsup and the Blog: http://vcgmstivescountryclub.blogspot.com/

See you on the course,

Kyle Macdonald, GCS, Class A