It’s interesting to reflect back. The first Disturbance Theory
article was “Changing the Nature of your Greens” and it started with a bold ambition ...
“Our objective is to help you
understand that the nature of the environment controls the
composition of the sward. With this understanding you can take
better control and bring improved quality. If you can see how nature works you may become a better part of it. You need to be able to adapt. We want you to start
formulating your greenkeeping strategy in terms of managing environmental pressures. We
mean to get you thinking about your greens differently.”
We were younger then. We don’t know how successful we have
been but we gave it a go. This is the final Disturbance Theory
article and it is the one where we try to draw everything together
By Richard Windows and Henry Bechelet STRI Agronomists
P
icture this. Your greenkeeping plan is formed in your mind. You picture the ideal surface then form a plan to set about achieving it. The imagined
ideal surface will draw from your understanding of the style of the course, the required playing qualities (the take, release and hold of the ball), the prevailing climatic conditions and the resources available. You will see what is needed and what is possible, then aim for a realistic target. Sward species composition should be a
key consideration for your ideal putting surface because it has a radical impact on surface playing qualities, its susceptibilities and the maintenance requirements. You shouldn’t overlook the different grass types when deciding about the future development of your greens.
In the zone
If your decision is to strive for an ideal putting surface that contains an increased proportion (or complete dominance) of the browntop bents (Agrostis capillaris) and/or fine fescues (Festuca rubra spp.) then the Disturbance Theory is here to help. With our articles and lectures we have tried to arm you with a simple understanding of plant growth strategies to help you to manage the environment
in favour of the desired species blend. This way of thinking will allow you to make progress without having to compromise on playing quality. What becomes clear by following this path is the need for flexibility. If you are going to successfully change the sward composition you will need to be able to work within the dynamic environment and try to keep it within the desired zone. This article will tell you about the journey towards the fine grasses and what you will need to do along the way. To favour the development of the
browntop bents and fine fescues in UK golf greens you will need to master four distinct stages of greenkeeping. Each step has different objectives and they each require a particular method to succeed. Put simply, each stage must be completed before moving on to the next. We think that the failure of greenkeepers to make significant progress with the finer grasses is because the approach isn't phased in the right way. This article is about setting and maintaining your focus.
The four phases
We think that the four different phases of greenkeeping are:
Phase 1: Lay the foundation Phase 2: Manage the establishment Phase 3: Pressure the Poa Phase 4: Prevent re-invasion
YOUR PRIDE and the GOLFERS’ JOY
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