Delicate Relationships


When turf and trees share the same landscape, turf is often on the short end of the relationship. Warm season grass species require a daily minimum of six hours of sunlight to survive. Any less and the turf will develop a symptom known as lodging (a spindly, weak growth habit) and the grass stand will begin to thin. In
this weakened condition, the turf is predisposed to traffic injury and oftentimes becomes overrun with weeds. However, the impact trees have on turf is not limited to the shade pattern they cast. Turf growing adjacent to trees is also negatively affected by tree root encroachment. Tree roots deprive the turf of nutrients and water resulting in drought damage, chlorosis(yellowing), and weakness.  

The Agronomy team at Colleton River Club continually evaluates the relationship between the trees and the turf and selectively trims and root prunes trees to reduce their impact on the turf.  During the most recent course closure, we used the Imants Root Pruner to help minimize the problems associated with root encroachment. This machine uses a series of twelve-inch rotating blades to sever surface roots and help protect the turf.  Done properly this equipment can help balance the relationship between turf and trees without causing long term damage to either. Next time you are on the course, take a moment to appreciate the majestic trees and the shade they provide, but consider how they might be affecting the turf.

Root pruning the eighth hole of the Nicklaus Course with the Imants Root Pruner

Root pruning the eighth hole of the Nicklaus Course with the Imants Root Pruner

VENT FOR SUCCESS

Start your New Year off right by indulging! That is, indulging your roots with oxygen through regular venting of your greens. Venting procedures increase infiltration, encourage gas exchange and promote rooting.  The Toro 648 revolutionized this age old technique and the tine assortments are simply mind boggling. The Toro Titan Solid Slicing tine part number 108-9241 is a personal favorite however it is hard to argue with the standard ¼ inch vent tine. The results are simply magnificent. The warm, wet weather throughout the Southeast, added to the seasonal low light conditions have added a myriad of stresses and roots are at dangerously shallow depths.  Adjust your spacing, depth and tine arrangement to avoid unnecessary lifting. If play or your staffing level won’t allow you to perform these procedures, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Agronomic Consulting Enterprises would be happy to help you schedule these operations at night.     

Green Sweep Aeration Game Changer

Turf Advice is ecstatic to welcome our new partner Green Sweep. The Original Green Sweep is a game changer during aeration. Developer Pat Sisk's common sense approach improves efficiency, saves money and reduces turf stress.

The Green Sweep allows turf managers the ability to thoroughly incorporate sand in aeration holes maximizing your aeration practices. The process minimizes physical injury associated with standard brushing or dragging practices and reduces bridging of holes. Seeing is believing but visit Greensweeptech.com and transform your aeration techniques.