Golf Course Update - July 25th - Anniversary Edition

Today marks 5 weeks since we planted our tees. I am happy to say most of the tees appear to be filling in on schedule. Yes, we all wish they were fully grown-in but it is not uncommon for full-coverage to take 8 weeks or more. Keep in mind, these tees are just over 1-month-old. Growth and spread will continue to increase exponentially as the tees mature. However, it is evident that a few, like number 12, are lagging behind. We have identified this and altered maintenance practices to add additional sprigs cut from our own turf. We also have assessed nutrient availability and determined that the numerous summer rains have made it necessary to add additional fertilizer at this time. In an effort to push growth, we will be supplementing with extra fertilizer every 4-6 days until coverage is achieved. With summer not even half-over, we have plenty of good growing weather ahead to allow tees to cover and mature. We will continue to push growth, monitor and adjust plans as needed.

Below you can see the progress of growth on #4 Tee since planting:

June 19 - Day of planting

June 28

July 3rd

July 12 - First Topdressing

July 17

July 23

It's the lateral growth of the bermudagrass stolons that enable the grass to cover

I am sorry to report that we lost a Washingtonian palm on #5 by the right fairway bunker due to a recent lightning strike. The tree will be removed at first opportunity. A good reminder of why we should not be on the golf course when there is lightning in the area.

This tree on #5 was destroyed by a lightning strike

Every year we make a preventative treatment for mole crickets. Mole crickets are large insects that destroy turfgrass by tunneling underneath and feeding on the plants. Left untreated, these insects can obliterate large areas of turfgrass in a short time. It appears as though there was an issue with this year's preventative treatment as mole cricket activity has been identified across the golf course. I have met with the chemical manufacturer's representative and they are providing us with enough free product to treat the entire golf course with an effective post-control product. We have already treated 10 acres and hope to complete treatments by the middle of next week.

This area shows damage caused by mole crickets

The grounds department spent some time this week verticutting the areas of sod around the greens from last year's bunker project. These areas were very bumpy, caused by the individual pieces of sod, and efforts are being made to smooth them. This was the first of several verticuttings aimed at removing the high spots over a given area. As a byproduct, there are numerous grass stems produced, many of which are expected to be viable for transplant. We took these stems and spread them like sprigs across 12 tee and part of 8 tee to encourage faster growth of these areas.

#13 approach following verticutting

#12 tee after verticut clippings were planted

Finally, today marks the 14th anniversary of my start date at Isla Del Sol. Where does the time go? It's been a wonderful place to call home, and I look forward to serving you for many more years to come.