Install new sod immediately upon arrival, even if it means not amending or fertilizing the exposed soil. Sod begins to die as soon as it is out and takes 3 to 4 weeks to establish itself in new soil, so the quicker it is in contact the new soil, the sooner it will begin to grow, with a minimum chance of browning edges or die off. Bent grass (Agrotis Palustris L) -- a very flat, lush, smooth grass grown in sand --is used for the green (figure A). Low growth, upright growth, density, color and good ball roll are all factors to consider when choosing grass for a putting green. Fertilize, as directed by the turf company where it is purchased, to keep it green and healthy, since it is susceptible to different types of fungus. Frequent watering is also essential for healthy growth.
- Roll out sod, starting at the back of the green with the longest point lines (figure B). Stagger the next pieces, making sure the short edges don't line up with each other. The goal is nice, clean lines with a minimum of cuts to lessen the chances of browning at the seam edges.
- Hand tamp sod edges in place to insure tight soil lines (figure C).
- Trim soil to fit around rocks using a serrated kitchen knife (figure D).
Use a sod roller to smooth out bumps and make sure the sod roots are in firm contact with the soil (figure E).Pick the spot for the ball cup, and using it as a template, score the soil with a sharp knife. Remove circle of sod, scoop out soil and sink cup until it is level with the sod surface (figure F).Water sod up to twice a day, depending on climate and temperature. Keep moist, but not soaked.
The sod should not be walked on for three to four weeks while it becomes established and starts to develop a root system. When it is established, turf experts recommend daily mowing at 1/8" with a mower especially designed for golf courses or a mower with a very low blade setting. Daily mowing ensures the best putting surface.
RESOURCES :
Plants from Simply Beautiful
Simply Beautiful
Website: www.simplybeautifulgardens.com
Plants from Monrovia Horticultural Craftsmen
Monrovia Horticultural Craftsmen
Website: www.monrovia.com
Golf-course-gade grass for putting greens
Model/Color/ISBN#: Dominant Plus
Dimensions: @ 120 sq. feet
Approximate Price Range: @ $1/25/square foot
West Coast Turf
31755 Winchester Road
Winchester, CA 92596
Toll-free: 1-800-426-4816
Website: www.westcoastturf.com
Boulders & Rocks
Model/Color: Lemon Cove, Navajo, Desert Select
Dimensions: Small (4"-6" diameter), medium (12" diameter), large (18"-24" diameter)
KRC Rock
315 E. Carmel Street
San Marcos, CA 92078-4311
Toll-free: 1-800-572-7625
Website: www.KRCRock.com
PATIO Plus All-Natural Outdoor Potting and Planting Soil
Size: 1.5 cubic feet / bag
Approximate Price Range: $6.00
Kellogg Garden Products
Website: www.kellogggarden.com
GUESTS :
Steve McLaughlin
Winchester, CA
Website: www.westcoastturf.com
Sales Representative
West Coast Turf
Gary Jones
Nurseryman / Horticulturist
Armstrong Nurseries
Glendora, CA
E-mail: gjones@armstronggarden.com
Website: www.armstronggarden.com
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