Here we go again. Another hot summer is upon us and we are taking every step possible to keep the greens in the best  shape we can.
   The optimum temperature for root growth of bent grass, ranges from 50 to 65 degrees (soil temperature). New root growth ceases at a soil temperature of 80 degrees,and natural aging process of the existing root system begins. Soil temperatures above 86 degrees will cause root growth to stop and  lose their ability to function. Above the mid- 90 range ,root hairs begin to turn brown and fail to function properly. When air temperatures exceed 90 degrees, soil temperatures in the upper 0.5 inch can exceed 100 degrees on a sunny day. This is the beginning of the heat stress syndrome.
   Water management is the next piece of the puzzle. Wet soils accumulate heat slowly but retain more heat for longer periods of time particularly on putting greens. Plants can condition themselves to tolerate high temperatures, but in most cases large portions of root systems die in response to soil heating and or low soil oxygen levels. Excessive water in the soil replaces oxygen levels in the soil, therefore, plants can be further injured by oxygen deprivation We are combating these conditions by constantly checking the moisture content of the soil profile with soil probes. The venting of the greens on Monday and Tuesdays with 1/4 inch diameter tines, three inches deep, helps release heat and allows air into the soil.
   Soil temperatures have a huge effect on the root system of bent grass greens.  Pearly white roots that extend four to six inches or deeper in May will turn brown and be restricted to the top half inch to two inches of soil by late July. The problem now are the excessively high temperatures we are experiencing every day. To help relieve some the stress, I have utilized the course closer period every afternoon to direct air across the greens for the cooling effect and as needed very light syringing.
   The removal of trees accomplished this past year has allowed more sunlight  and air movement around the greens and I have seen a significant improvement in their condition. We will continue to do more under brushing and limbing-up the surrounding areas this summer.
  I want to thank the membership for their support and encouraging words to my staff and myself during this stressful period. We also appreciate your understanding of the closure period in the afternoon to allow us to freely move about the course tending to the greens.
  The pool has now been open for two weeks and is being used heavily. We would ask that all rules on the pool house wall be followed to the word. Please remember there is no glass ware allowed in the pool enclosure. Due to the potential late evening storms, when you are leaving the pool, PLEASE, lower the umbrellas. Enjoy the summer. Tom