For weeks now we have been begging for rain on the golf course. Well, we finally got it. As I write this on Monday the 18th, we are getting a series of t-storms that are dumping rain on the golf course. Not sure how much we will ultimately get, but the timing couldn't be worse.
When daytime temperatures hit 90+ and nighttime lows hit 70+ for consecutive days, there are a myriad of fungal diseases that superintendent's stress about. Standing water on the golf course will do nothing but promote the development of these diseases in these conditions. Also, as we saw over Memorial Day weekend, the potential for 'scalding' of the turf exists, which could add to potential turf damage and loss.
We have sprayed a 'witches brew' of chemicals that will hopefully stave off the development and ultimately protect the plant, but Mother Nature always has a way of overcoming in extreme circumstances. We will have to be diligent to ensure the course doesn't suffer more damage than necessary.
In the event of severe disease outbreak, it may even be necessary to stop mowing, which will make it difficult to provide the level of playing conditions that you are accustomed to. I will make every effort to keep the membership informed and also to keep the course 'up to snuff'. Bear with us through this difficult stretch of weather, and I assure you we will do what we can to protect our club.
Stay cool! Below is a post to a short turf-nerd explanation of disease pressure from MSU's Dr. Joe Vargas via the Michigan Golf Course Superintendent's Association Website.
Dr. Vargas Talks Turf-nerd stuff click here.
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