TurfHead Jam Podcast.....

Recently, I had the opportunity to team up with my good friend, Dave Wilber for a "TurfHead Jam" podcast for TurfNet.com This was about as much fun as you can have when it comes to talking about the golf course industry. No script, no outline, just pure TurfHeads saying what they think! We talk about Tiger Woods, depression, clipping volume, and just a bunch of wisdom from two guys that have been at it a long time. Take a listen, click HERE and enjoy. 

Love this Graphic - Thanks TurfNet.com

Greens Construction Amendments......

When it comes to USGA greens construction, the addition of rootzone organic amendments can certainly make a major difference during the grow-in/establishment phase. Many times, superintendents are under tremendous pressure to establish new greens as fast as possible and get them ready for play. The use of amendments is a great way to help accomplish this. One organic amendment, Milorganite, has been one of the most used and successful amendments for greens construction for many years. I’ve personally used Milorganite as an amendment in greens construction throughout my career and have seen excellent results. I would personally not perform any greens construction and grow-in without the supplemental use of Milorganite.

Adding an organic amendment such as Milorganite during greens
construction can enhance establishment dramatically. 

Research was conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison using various organic fertilizer amendments showed some very interesting results. All plots treated with amendments showed more rapid grow-in than the control plot. The study also found that adding additional organic materials to the rootzone mix increased firmness and stability, improved water retention and water infiltration rates, enhanced color, increased rooting depth and reduced phosphorous deficiency symptoms.

This photo shows the incredible rooting and establishment of a USGA
green I constructed a few years ago with the use of Milorganite. 

As you can see in the graph below, Milorganite amended plots rated numerically higher or, at minimum, equal to the highest treatment, in all categories. Adding Milorganite to the original off-site mix or as an on-site supplement increased the establishment and performance of the new greens construction plots.

As fall golf course renovation hits full stride, consider adding an organic amendment such as Milorganite to your rootzone mix for superior grow-in and establishment of USGA greens construction.

If you haven't read this....you should!

This is a great piece by TurfNet Maestro, Peter McCormick. Felt like I was along for the walk with him. Growing up on the coast of Connecticut and Maine, this had some special meaning. Take a few minutes out of your hectic day and give this a read. Click HERE ......enjoy!