As we continue to move forward we also keep monitoring the greens for plant health. Last Saturday I pulled another sample from a green. The sample is growing good after being inside for only a couple of days. I plan on retrieving more samples later this week. Below are pictures of the sample taken Saturday and a picture taken Monday afternoon after some growth.
With temperatures still well below average, there isn't much that can be done except monitor and document our findings. Removing the snow and any type of ice isn't a good option for us. With temperatures dropping again and wind being an issue it could be disastrous to our greens by exposing all of the grasses to desiccation.
As I mentioned before research on ice damage is very difficult due to winter inconsistencies. Research is being conducted all across the country, and the findings may not apply to all golf courses. In fact, every course is different and there are also many things that factor into ice damage or other winter related issues. Many of these factors include turf type, the amount of plant respiration, organic matter content, freeze/thaw cycles and shade (sunlight is very critical all year long). The biggest factor, and all researchers will agree is what Mother Nature does........So far she's been nothing short of brutal.
