Cold and frosty on the course today. The frost delay on Wednesday in similar conditions lasted until 11:00am. The sunny weather and warmer temperatures predicted for today should help it burn off quicker. Golfers should still plan on a 10:30am start time for today.
We do have our first delay of the year due to frost. We will keep the Pro Shop updated on a projected start time. Golfers can plan on at start around 9:30.
This weather forecast shows quite a change in the temperatures are coming. Not even in the 50's next week for highs. This will certainly start to change the leaves quickly and expedite leaf drop. If you have plans to play next week, this forecast also means very lengthy frost delays. There is also a 10% chance of snow for Wednesday and Thursday! Fairway aeration will continue next week and look for fall flowers in front of the clubhouse as well.
This will cause a large amount of disruption to the playing surface and a period of time will be needed for the fairways to heal. With the frosts that are now predicted, healing time will be delayed due to the slower growth of the grass.
We have made several posts for the reasons we avoid traffic during frosts. Please refer to these for more detailed information:
Frost for Friday?
Frost
Well another glorious fall week has passed with ideal temperatures and
almost complete recovery for many greens surfaces that were opened up in
early to mid-September. Aeration is still going on but there is always a
much bigger gamble in regards to recovery when doing it this time of
the year. Insect problems are still hanging around somewhat but in areas
that are considered low value. The overnight temperatures have dropped
somewhat but a frost may be needed to knock back any more disease
problems. Dollar spot in the aggressive fall form has been hanging
around and this has proved to be difficult to shake. Leaf fall has
definitely begun to occur and many courses have switched from aeration
mode to leaf removal and mulching mode - despite temperatures cooling
off - there is always something to do!
Conference and meeting dates are coming up; the Midwest Turf Clinic
is scheduled for November 14th at Medinah Country Club. Dr. Zac Reicher,
University of Nebraska-Lincoln is coming in to discuss practical Poa
management and round table discussions with a year in review also on the
schedule. Attending these events keeps you up to date and ahead of the
game - if you're not going forward it's hard to say you're not going
backwards!
As always if you have a question or query please do not hesitate to ask and you can call or email.
Ed Nangle PhD
Director of Turfgrass Programs
Chicago District Golf Association
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