March - In Like A Lion.......

What a difference a few days can make. After commenting last week about how little snow cover was left on the course, this weekend has reminded everyone that the snow tires will need to be out a while longer! Looking outside this morning it looks pretty white out there, but spring is coming and the grounds crew are ready. As previously mentioned last week I'll be looking forward to pulling the protective covers off the greens and tees and assessing the course for winter damage.

When it comes to covering or uncovering grass timing is very important. To survive winter temperatures grass needs t to "harden" off and acclimate to colder temperatures back in the fall. Pulling the blankets at the wrong time can also result in weak or damaged grass. Anyone who has spent any time in the Peace country knows that our wildly unpredictable weather can make it a challenge to determine when its the right time to pull the covers.

Moisture is the principal culprit when it comes to winter damage. Too much too early leads to ice cover and winter kill. Too little too late and plants dry out and die. Snow cover that provides insulation through the winter and valuable moisture in the spring can also provide good growing conditions for snow mould. Grey snow mould is a common disease of turfgrasses in areas where there are over 90 days of continuous snow cover during the winter. As with most problems, its better to prevent mould than to have to fix it later! Hopefully Len's work last  fall  will see us get off to a great start this spring. The wild card this year has been our bouts of warm weather. The freeze thaw cycle, usually reserved for late March and April, came early this year, and the return to more seasonal temperatures now, leaves the course facing icy conditions!

While waiting on Mother Nature golfers can ease the anticipation by upgrading their equipment or purchasing a membership for the coming season. Come see the Links staff at the trade show April 13 - 15 at the Pomeroy Sport Centre, or call Len or Rose at 250 785 - 9995 to check out deals at the pro shop. Whether we work outside or in,  Links staff are looking forward to the new season!