Common Question - Why no carts in late fall?

WHY DOES THE GOLF COURSE CLOSE NOW AND WHY CAN'T WE USE THE GRASS TEE AT THE RANGE? At the end of the growing season just prior to dormancy, tufgrass needs to maximize it's ability to survive the extremes of winter. We can help that process by employing practices that enhances the reserve carbohydrate (food) level and general health of the turf. Practices like: limiting mechanical damage from play and cart traffic, applying small amounts of nutrients and raising mowing heights to relieve stress.

In the fall, when the grass stops growing, it cannot recover from damage by carts, foot traffic and mowing equipment. We close the golf courses so they have the best chance of avoiding winter damage and allowing the golfer good playing conditions the following spring.

Days are shorter in the fall and with fewer staff, time is at a premium. Aerification, topdressing greens, fall fertility, irrigation blowout, snow mold applications, treating ponds, winterizing the bathrooms, putting protective covers on before the ground freezes ... the list of things we must do to put annual bluegrass greens to bed for the winter is extensive.

The Range Tee stops growing too, in mid-October. It's too cold for seed to germinate and any damage incurred now will remain through next spring. By using the matts only, we are insuring a better playing surface next April.