Wednesday 19th February 2014.

With greens renovation now complete I thought I would take the opportunity to show the reason why we core and topdress greens.

Coring is important to reduce the degree of thatch that we have in the greens as a product of growth. This organic layer holds up water infiltration, reduces the amount of oxygen available for the root system and can cause an increase in the risk of disease pathogens affecting the turf.

By coring and topdressing we allow for good water movement, encourage roots to go deeper in search of water and increase levels of oxygen in the subsoil to help develop a strong root system. A strong root system leads to a strong turf surface.

We undertake these practices at both Spring and late Summer/early Autumn to encourage root growth before periods of stress. The Spring renovation encourages strong growth and the Autumn renovation helps to allow good drainage before the wet period.

This renovation is particularly important for are older greens some of which are approaching 30 years of age. The reason we are still able to play on these greens is because we have had a stringent regime of renovation for the duration of the life.

Below are photographs of one of our oldest greens. You will notice a very dark brown organic layer about 100mm deep, just below the turf level of thatch/mat. This is the layer we attempt to remove and replace with free-draining sand.

Down through this layer you will see a vertical channel filled with yellow sand from our Spring renovation and some strong roots that have developed down this channel since this time.

Recovery of these greens should be relatively quick and be in sound health for the winter months.

Layer of thatch / mat with last Springs core hole filled with topdressing sand.

Notice core hole from last Spring renovation with strong root growth developed over the past 4 months.

Tuesday 18th February 2014.

All greens have been cored and topdressed over the past couple of days in what has proven to be a relatively smooth exercise.

With good weather forecast for the next few days recovery should be quick. A follow-up light topdressing may be required next week once irrigation and brushing has been conducted over the coming days.

Greens will be fertilised later in the week once this brushing has been completed.

Members are reminded that a 'Preferred Lie' within 6 inches (150mm) may be taken on cored greens and collars until further notice. Please monitor the Local Rule Board to find out when this local rule ceases to apply.