Driving Range Prep

The first job we perform every morning when we get to the course is on the Range Tee Top.  The 1 acre tee takes a beating everyday.  Keeping the turf plush and thick is nearly impossible, it is one of the many challenges Superintendents face.  What we have been doing this year is as follow:

• First we blow off the divots from the previous day
• Second we solid tine the area that was hacked
• Third we take a slit seeder over the bare areas
• And Forth we topdress the area with sand
• On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we mow the tee
• Every two weeks we put down a starter fertilizer (18-24-12)
• The ropes get moved forward everyday to allow for a fresh area of grass to hit on.

So far this year I would say it is looking better than it did last year.  It is definitely a challenge and with experience through trial and error we hope to have it in better shape year after year.  Below are photos of the work that is performed.

Blowing off debris and divots 

Solid Tine/Venting damaged area

Slit seeding bare areas

Topdressing with sand

Blue River Flood

The Blue River got out of its banks once again.  Some of the regulars have said they have seen it worse, but for me this tops all other floods.  The top photo is of 7 fairway looking from the tee before the flood and the bottom was taken around 2 P.M. at the same location.  Ouch. However 24 hours later it only left some muddy silt behind.  We will aerify these areas and it should recover nicely.  After 2 days of being closed we are now open, cart path only.

Summer Annuals Are In

This years summer annuals are finally in the ground.  It was a cold spring and so we got them in the ground a little later than we did last year.  The flowers you will see on the course include Vinca, Coleus, Petunia, Lantanas, Canna Lily, and Ornamental Sweet Potato.  

Driving Range Tee is Open

Since September the grass on the Range Tee has been closed.  Well, it is finally open!! We seeded it last fall so this spring you would all have good turf to practice on. It is an acre large and consists of Rye and Blue Grass.  Come on out and enjoy!

Ornamental Grass Fire

Instead of cutting the ornamental grasses this year, we saved some time by setting them a blaze.  In the video you can watch this fun and effective way to get the grass ready for spring.  Commentary by the legendary Tony Bertels.