Above and below, you might be seeing some Hemlocks around the course or on your property that don’t look quite right. The needles are reddish brown or yellow and may be falling off in areas. In most cases you’re seeing needle rust, caused by a fungus. Don’t get to worried because this isn’t something that needs to be treated. In most cases, it just runs its course. Hemlocks don’t like water logged soils and periods of extreme dampness. Just like leaf spot that is common on maples, needle rust is one of those pests that pops up on Hemlocks during times of extreme wet weather.
Below, you probably took notice of the area to the right of #13 green. This area was cleaned out several years ago and converted to fine fescues. However, it never did fit well and was always inundated with weeds that were extremely difficult to eradicate. Many times, it took a non selective herbicide to do the job, which left the area looking even worse. Therefore, we’re switching gears. Later this fall, we’ll be sodding this area to playable Kentucky Bluegrass, what comprises most of our primary rough. While it won’t necessarily stop errant golf balls, it will be playable and much cleaner looking.
And finally below (and on a lighter note), I just don’t know what to say about this one. While standing at the start of 12 fairway today, I found 2 claws. It seems to me, there is more missing. Why this crawfish left his claws on #12 fairway is a mystery and I’d be willing to bet his mom is upset. I’m sure he is having a hell of a time trying to eat dinner tonight.
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