Greens
April saw the team carry out the renovation of the greens which was achieved over four days, a challenging but satisfying process for the greenkeepers. Cold night time temperatures and dry, easterly winds slowed recovery and lower than expected soil temperatures delayed seed germination and grass growth making the renovation seem longer than usual. There are a few uneven patches left, but the team will apply a light topdressing to smooth these areas out.
12th Bunkers
The bunkers are now in play following the refurbishment, enhancing the appearance of the hole, making maintenance easier for the greens team and providing the opportunity to reach the green from these hazards.
13th Fairway Drainage
This area is now in play and has settled in well. The few heavy showers we have had recently confirmed that the work was successful. Surface water is now removed from the fairway much more efficiently in these areas, however, of course we hope that the summer months don't put the drainage to test too much whilst we enjoy some much needed sunshine!
Wild Flower Zones
These areas have been weeded to allow new growth to come through. The beds on 6 and 9 have had no overseeding to see how they come through naturally. On the 14th red tee, extra seeds have been sown. We are looking forward to seeing the results by the end of May.
Fairways/ Tees/ Collars
These are being cut continuously throughout the week to maintain appearance and playability.
Tree Planting
300 saplings have been planted in selected areas with thanks to Eldon for helping us find some funding to support these improvements. Alder, Elder, Rowan and Japanese Larch have been planted to name but a few. We have given them the best opportunity to survive with a root feed and watering them in and watch with interest as they develop.
Divoting
The Tees will be divoted by the green staff in the next couple of weeks, but the fairways require volunteer input. We are trying to arrange a divoting evening for next week on either Thursday or Friday. It would be much appreciated if you could give a few hours of your time to help.
Irrigation System
In the first week of April, the pressure tank unit failed internally. Without this pump, we had no way of watering the greens however , a quick reaction and investment from the club meant that we were able to get it back up and running without too much delay. As we are all aware the irrigation system is past its best, we keep our fingers crossed for as few issues as possible over the summer.
Final Thoughts
Between now and the end of the playing season, we will continue to carry out intensive micro coring and topdressing of the greens. So far, we are on schedule to add over 120 tonnes of sand to the greens. I have noticed fewer pitch marks and improved surface drainage after heavy downfalls this month. These are very positive signs.
Thanks again to the guys for a great team effort. Happy golfing.
Matt