Winter Weather and Frost Delays

With the changing weather comes changes in management practices here at Willow Ridge. Particularly in regards to frost delays caused by freezing temperatures and cold fall nights. The frost alone is not damaging to the turfgrass, but walking and running equipment over the grass can be extremely damaging.

The putting greens, maintained at such low heights of cut are very susceptible to damage when they are covered with frost. This is because the leaf blades which are 90% water become covered in ice crystals. When walked on, the the ice crystals are likely to puncture and rupture the cell walls of the plant. Often times symptoms do not manifest for 24-48 hours where a dead footprint will appear. Not only are the greens susceptible to frost damage, all of the turf can be killed when walked on with frost. This includes not only tees, fairways and approaches but the rough as well.

Damage resulting from walking on frost covered turfgrass

While frost delays can be an annoyance, it is important for everyone to understand the reasoning behind them. Walking on the greens before the frost has melted can cause irreversible damage resulting in unneeded repairs. When there is a frost delay, information can be found by calling the golf hotline. The management staff is in close contact with the first tee during frost delays ensuring golf can begin as soon as favorable conditions return.