The work happening on course at this time of year might seem subtle, but it\u2019s all carefully planned and deliberate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nutrition remains a priority, even in the cooler months. This time of year, we lean on slow-release fertilisers and favour products with a higher potassium content. This helps improve the turf\u2019s ability to withstand cold, wet conditions. It\u2019s all about strengthening what\u2019s below the surface: a resilient root system is our best defence against winter stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With growth slowing down, mowing becomes less frequent – but that doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s less important. In fact, our mowing strategy becomes more considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We avoid tight turns on the mowers and pay close attention to where we\u2019re driving to prevent wear in high-traffic areas. The risk of scalping is greater in winter, so we raise the height of cut if needed. It\u2019s a simple change that goes a long way in protecting the turf through the colder months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By this point in the season, irrigation systems are largely turned off. Aside from watering in fertilisers or herbicides, we don\u2019t need supplemental water – and that gives us a window to carry out behind-the-scenes work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the system offline, our team can complete routine maintenance and repairs that would be difficult during peak watering months. These improvements now mean fewer surprises come spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cool, damp conditions can create ideal environments for winter turf diseases. We stay ahead by monitoring vulnerable areas closely and applying treatments as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Managing traffic becomes a bigger part of our job in winter. Ropes and stakes are used more often to guide movement, especially near greens, tees, and common walk-off points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tee markers and pin locations are rotated regularly to spread wear and reduce the pressure on any one area. It\u2019s a small detail, but one that plays a big role in maintaining surface quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout winter, we continue spiking greens and high-traffic zones. This process helps relieve surface compaction, improves drainage, and keeps air and nutrients moving through the soil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We also apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent winter weeds from germinating. The goal here is simple: start spring with a clean surface, rather than a battle to get back on top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n