We are into that time of year when we will soon be dealing with frost covered turf on a regular basis. When frost covers the grass, it is crucial to keep all traffic off of it until the air temperature warms enough to melt the frost. When the plant cells are frozen, the grass will die if it is walked on. These two photos illustrate that nicely. There are times when irrigation water can be applied to melt frost, but only when the air temperature is well above freezing, 38*F or warmer. If irrigation water is applied to grass when the temperature is still below freezing, the result will be a winter wonderland scene and a golf course that is delayed even further. Highlands CC is unique because the 2nd hole is the last green on the golf course to receive any sun. While the frost might be clear on #1, #2 is shaded and requires a lot more time before play is allowed. On the back 9, holes #11 and #12 behave very similar due to shade and the reason we can't simply start golfers on the back nine during frost days. We ultimately make every effort to get players out on the course as quickly as possible.
The solution is quite simple...this time of year, avoid making 8am tee times. If you do make an 8:00 tee time, you will need to be patient and understanding that frost might impact your start time.
