Zoysia sod on approaches and next to bunkers

The zoysia sod we laid last fall as a part of the bunker project for the most part was dormant when it was placed on the ground.  It was green in most cases but did not have adequate enough time to set new roots  before winter.  That is what it is doing right now as the weather continues to warm.  Its spending most of its energy setting these roots in place and attempting to grow leaf blades from the mowing that we are doing to it on a weekly basis.   Neither are setting the world on fire with their growth.  The areas most effected are the approaches of #1, new catch area approach along #2 green, trench lines across fairways such as #7, and the new sod on #18 approach.  There are also some intermediate circles around the greens that were placed in zoysia as well.

Most of the sod we received has germinated some winter annuals, poa annua and other weeds.  Some of these weeds we have been able to mow out pretty well but some are requiring some light broadleaf weed control applications.  We have not been too aggressive with these sprays because the plants are still young and tender and are having difficulty in this cool, wet climate we have been experiencing   We will begin to add sand to the sod lines and topdress in the next week or so to improve the lies you are experiencing.  Remember, Rule 25-1 does give you relief from sod seams.  As the weather warms, the grass will grow up through the sand in the seams which will help to smooth out these areas.

Optimum soil temperatures for warm season grass to grow is usually about 75-85 degrees.  Right now we are in the upper 50's.  There is nothing that can be done to improve these conditions without increased soil temperatures which increases the growth production within the plant.  These temperatures also effect the established turf but not to the extent that it does new sod trying to establish.  Also, the lack of sunshine slows the plants processes down to a minimum.

Check out Dr. Lee Miller's report from University of Missouri regarding warm season grasses, soil temperatures and other pertinent information that effects the conditions of the turf that you are playing upon and that I am trying to manage at this time of year.

http://turfpath.missouri.edu/reports/update05_09_13.htm