Today marks the day of our 2016 spring fertilization. This includes a 22-0-7 fertilizer with a chemical coating know as Pendamethalin. Pendamethalin creates a chemical barrier in the soil to prevent the germination of annual grasses; specifically Crabgrass in our case. As with any chemical application, timing is critical. The product will work for a specific length of time based on numerous environmental factors. If we apply the product too early or too late, we miss the window of germination (Crabgrass) and the product will seem ineffective despite the fact it is human error.
The fertilizer I use is manufactured in Sylacauga, AL. You might be familiar with the golf resort, Farmlinks, which is/was owned by the family that owns this fertilizer company (it seems I recently heard it changed ownership in the last 2 years). Polyon is the name of the product and the fertilizer prills are coated with a polymer (actual plastic) to give an long, time released feeding schedule. This means I can apply more (160 lbs fertilizer per acre) at one time and it lasts into October. We will supplement this fertilizer in the summer by applying low rates of liquid fertilizers on a 14-21 day interval.
As with any turfgrass input, we have one chance to get it right. This is critical that staff involved are on board, alert and safe in order to ensure an even and effective application. It also is a tremendous amount of money we are "spreading" on the turf. This application alone costs in the neighborhood of $22,000. While I don't like to discuss any kind of financials on this forum, I think it's important to understand how serious turf management practices can be, economically. You have a great team responsible for the #1 asset of Highlands CC. The argument can be made that Superintendents have more responsibility than any other department leader because of this alone. One accident could set the condition of the course, and ultimately income, back for years. Or worse, an accident the results in the need for a renovation. While unlikely, it happens all the time. This is why I have implemented a program (I discussed at length in the past) that insures all of our math, products and mixing procedures are checked 3 times buy different people. It all but eliminates the potential of an accident. As your superintendent, this is my livelihood and I go above and beyond to ensure this department runs without flaw.
