4/21/2020 - By Kurt von Hofen

This spring has been very interesting—to say the least—for superintendents across the country. As most of the nation comes to a standstill, most supers are asking “how can I manage my course while my staff is cut back to bare bones?” There are many factors that affect how the next 60 to 90 days will unfold, and how your course will fair during the coming summer stress months. Some courses are closed and already aerifying, while some are packed with full tee sheets. These are the times when you really need to focus on the basics, cover your bases, protect the club’s assets, and set yourself up for a great summer. With the temperatures warming up and high humidity right around the corner, your focus should be on root growth. To do that, you need to have an updated plan in place.

Here are a few basic thoughts that you should consider when formulating your plan:

1. Set a baseline with Water, Soil, and Tissue testing.

2. Check for Nematode pressure and consult our Root Health Program.

3. Consider preventative Fairy Ring applications. 

4. Identify your pre- and post-emergent weed control options.

5. Aerify and load Potassium into the soil with Poly K. 

6. Apply POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer to playing surfaces. 

7. Utilize some of Harrell’s Good, Better, Best soil, wetting agent, foliar, and fairway application programs.

During these uncertain times, there are unpredictable scenarios playing out both on and off the course, but one thing remains the same: Harrell’s is here to help. Reach out to your Harrell’s Rep to address any concerns or review any of these considerations with you. We can help you to determine the best solution for your property.