Another busy and highly productive week on the course as we ramp up our work schedule and preparation ahead of Opening Day this coming Saturday.
Greens were Verti-cut this week to remove lateral growth and stand the leaf upright, promoting in a faster, firmer and smoother ball roll. This process was followed by a light dusting of sand to improve surface firmness and assist in the continued dilution of the thatch layer. These practices are key to maintaining consistent putting green quality.
All fairways received a light foliar application consisting of iron and manganese. This supports turf health through summer stress conditions while significantly enhancing presentation. Fairways have been cut daily this week and are looking very uniform heading into Opening Day.
Tees also received a foliar application of iron and manganese, with the addition of a selective herbicide to remove broadleaf weeds in tee tops. Turf health on the tees continues to improve with the increased maintenance input they are receiving.
All bunkers have been edged, weeded, and faces smoothed. This is a very labor-intensive task, and the team has once again done a fantastic job presenting the bunkers and the course as a whole to a high standard.
Unfortunately, we have experienced some issues on a couple of greens, most notably the back sections of the 17th and 11th greens. The team has been actively plugging these affected areas and will continue this remedial work in the coming week. These issues are primarily due to high nematode activity and tree root encroachment. As these areas are outside the main playing lines, disruption to play has been minimal; however, it is important to highlight these challenges, so members are aware of the ongoing work required to maintain surface standards.
We hope everyone enjoys Opening Day on Saturday. The staff have worked extremely hard to present the course in excellent condition, and we look forward to seeing members enjoy the results of their efforts.
Liam Somers
