The weather continues to provide the opportunity for extended fall work.  As per the USGA Agronomic report we received in 2010, we are continuing to hit the greens with sand, even this late into the season.  Recommendations to increase sand topdressing has been recognized on our old soil greens, however the means to topdress during the busy season are often compromised by heavy event schedules, poor weather, staffing, plus the fact that sand dulls greensmowers very quickly and creates more work for our busy Mechanic, Mark Ryder.

Sand topdressing on greens is one of the best physical actions you can do for putting green quality.  The sand accumulates over years and helps with rootzone structure and drainage, and helps in the breakdown of thatch.  Sand also improves ball roll by allowing the ball to roll higher up in the grass stand.  In this case the topdressing was followed by a matting and rolling to help it to get into the aeration holes.  It is certainly easier to topdress when there isn't mowing or excessive play on the course.

Today we did a second topdressing since the vertidrain operation.