Following the renovation in early February, where a less invasive renovation was adopted, the playability of the greens returned to an acceptable standard within two weeks. More traditional renovations, using hollow cores, will take typically 5-6 weeks which is frowned upon by the golfer (not unique to Keperra). There has however been some subsequent issues with thatch (organic matter) which has caused areas within some greens to become “puffed up” where organic matter build up is higher. In these areas the mowing has caused scalping (leaf removal) to occur in some of the greens on holes 1-18 (known as grass variety 328). The ‘Tiff Dwarf’ grass on holes 19-27 reacts differently to the same environmental conditions (rain, high humidity, and reduced light on overcast days), with the scalping being limited to some holes on 1-18.
On a positive note, the turf is showing signs of recovery now with several amendments to the program being implemented to accelerate recovery. Increased dusting is taking place when course access allows, to continue to manage the puffiness of the 328 and provide a firmer even surface. Plant health is good with strong white roots seen in test plug observations in late February.
A management plan is in place to reduce the thatch and has been formulated with the assistance of an industry consultant. Further inputs are being made in the coming week/s to deliver a firm even putting surface for Club Championships and thereafter.
The greens will be dusted on Monday and Tuesday of next week, weather permitting as part of the greens management program.
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