Formation of Algae on greens
Several greens have remained on winter conditions over the past few weeks, despite improved ground conditions. At the beginning of March, algae developed on several greens. This algae manifests as dark green or black spores, which can quickly spread across affected areas via golfer foot traffic or machinery.
Algae infestation is influenced by several factors:
- Prolonged moisture during late summer and winter seasons.
- Limited air circulation and excessive shading.
- Low-lying areas along the edges of greens.
- Reduced grass cover due to disease or wear from traffic.
The greens affected include: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 13, and the Putting Green. A common feature among these greens is their proximity to trees, which limits direct sunlight exposure—particularly during winter months. Over the past two years, efforts have been made to improve air circulation and sunlight by removing trees and branches around these greens.
To address the algae problem, cultural practices have been adopted, as there are no effective chemical solutions available in the UK. The Greenstaff team implemented the following measures:
- Verti-cutting all greens.
- Applying topdressing.
- Knife-tining greens.
- Using suitable fertilizers to promote recovery.
Additionally, Greens 2, 3, 4, and the Putting Green received further treatment, including:
- Micro-tining.
- Application of Profile Porous Ceramic.
- Additional topdressing.
- Seeding with two grass seed species.
Green 13 underwent these treatments along with:
- Micro-tining and solid-tining.
- Application of Profile Porous Ceramic.
- Addition of dried sand to fill solid-tine holes.
- Overseeding with two grass seed species.
- Use of germination sheets to accelerate grass seed growth.
After these extensive treatments, these greens require time to recover. This recovery period allows fertilizers to strengthen the grass sward, ensuring the greens can sustain play without risk of spreading algae spores through golfers or machinery. When the risk of spreading the spores has been removed we will bring greens back into play before the start of the season
