6/10/2020 - By Matt Gregg

Looking back on these past few months, I’m surprised to report that the average daily temperature in March was higher than that of April—even more surprisingly, it was about even with May’s average. The outcome of these below-average temperatures for April and May has left many turf managers dealing with idle warm season turf.  

What’s worse? Low temps aren’t the only thing taking a toll on turf growth. Among the facilities that were able to remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic, many were forced to impose restrictions on golf cart use, limiting players to one person per golf cart and essentially doubling the cart traffic. This higher cart requirement per round, compounded by a record number of rounds played and insufficient growing temperatures has resulted in significant wear-and-tear for many turf managers. 

With idle turf and areas lacking new leaf growth, many managers are looking for an agronomic fertility program that will provide a “kick-start” to recovery. Throughout the Southeast, Coastal Plains and lower Mid-West regions, many turf managers have found what they were looking for in the Harrell’s Speedy Recovery Program.

Utilizing both granular and foliar fertility, this agronomic program has allowed many superintendents to push their turf, creating some much-needed leaf growth and recovery. It’s a four-week program, beginning with an initial application of a POLYON® controlled-release fertilizer blend to provide a dose of soluble N in granular form. This initial application provides the predictable, dependable baseline nutrition, while subsequent weekly applications of Harrell’s MAX® foliar products—Tall Turf and Root Enhancer—allow for the spoon feeding of fulvic acid, humic acid and various other nutrients that enhance stress relief and root health. By running your turf through this Speedy Recovery Program, you’re providing the best possible opportunity for the plant to push through this challenging, transitional growing period.  

Also, for warm season putting greens, ask your Harrell’s rep about the Start Your Engines foliar program to help promote a balanced approach. Featuring some of Harrell’s most effective products, like Bio-MAX® 7-7-7 and Bio-MAX® Amino Pro V, this program will aid in stress tolerance, stimulate root development, and get your greens moving out of dormancy and ready for play.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Harrell’s rep to discuss developing a recovery program for your unique agronomic needs.