Pitchcare
The root of the
problem?
Trees can play an important role on a golf course, depending on its type; parkland courses rely heavily on trees for their landscape, whereas there will be relatively few trees on a links course
the back of a green
play through
- Screening between holes parkland course
- Ecological value
However, trees can also create problems for the greenkeeper. They can restrict light and moisture is removed from the surface. Dew needs to dry before golfers walk on the surface, or fungi can spread, leading to diseases such as fusarium. Roots can spread towards, or onto, the surface
of the green, risking damage to mower blades, and robbing the turf of vital water and nutrients. The greenkeeper needs to be aware that root spread On heathland courses, leaf drip and shading from overhang can threaten heather. Certain trees can also be inappropriate on golf
a short life, and matures from the inside out, so
dangers to man and machinery. So, to get the best from golf course trees, they
must be managed. Alongside the greenkeeper’s own skills, he may need to take advantage of a specialist tree surgeon or arboriculturalist. issue and local authority permission may need to be sought. If in doubt, ask. Where a lack of air movement is the problem,
removing just one or two trees may not remedy the morning (generally to the south east, tracking Even if just one tree is the problem, remember
that it may be home to bats, which are protected by law and can’t be disturbed. A bat survey will establish whether it is possible to proceed.
branches and allow golfers to play from the edge of a green, as well as improving air movement.
understory (where young trees up to 6m high are growing through) is another useful technique, but does need supervision as the understory is an important component of the woodland structure. Whilst golf club members may worry about
the woodland edge supports more species than
Dead trees have considerable ecological value, with log piles providing a home for invertebrates, fungi and even small mammals. Standing dead wood is also useful and ‘weed’ trees, such as sycamores, could be treated with bark ringing to kill looking at suitable sites to restock. New trees edges than in the centre also helps to give a natural There is a wide range of species to choose from, hawthorn, rowan, goat willow and holly. Tall canopy trees would include birch, Scots pine, oak and beech, whilst crab apple is another important woodland tree. Remember, that not all trees may white beam drops white leaves which can make
can cedar, but remember the spreading habit of this species. Any tree nursery can supply suitable stock,
trees can be sourced from suppliers if immediate impact is needed, but remember that they need a Trees can be supplied as two year old forestry
quickly. Tree and hedgerow work cannot be undertaken the hard winter months, so bringing the work ‘in house’ can have advantages which are more than Whilst many greenkeepers will have chainsaw
added further skills in climbing or large tree felling, a woodland management course can provide further tools for caring for golf course trees.
144 I PC DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016
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