So much goes into proper golf course maintenance. Frost is one of the main things that keeps avid golfers from their appointed rounds. When it forms on the golf course, it will most likely cause a delay from play. So what exactly is the deal with frost? What issues does it bring? Superintendents work hard at dealing with frost.
Here are some of the frost facts.
Frost Does not Always Mean Freezing
Frost typically forms on turf throughout cold evenings and nights when the grass becomes colder than the surrounding air. Many factors go into creating these conditions, such as the cold temperature that is accompanied by dew points, wind speeds, humidity, and cloud cover. When grass gets wet, the surface temperature of the plant drops to the “Wet Bulb” temperature. If the temperature drops low enough, frost will likely form, especially in shaded or lower-lying areas, even if it has not yet reached freezing.
Noticing the Shift
After the sun sets, the earth begins to cool off until the sun continuously rises. Golf course managers and superintendents have to keep this in mind regarding pre-dawn maintenance. A frost-less course at the beginning of a shift can become a frosty course in the middle of tending to it. Workers must be well aware of this and, when that occurs, turn to other tasks, such as edging cart paths or tending mulch beds (anything that does not involve treading on the frosty turf). If you have unhappy golf members or damage to your grounds, tee to green insurance can help you get through that.
A Clear Night Means More Frost
Most golf course superintendents are already aware that frost delays are commonly needed to be called for after clear, crisp nights. This is due to the clouds trapping heat which warms the atmosphere, so an overcast night means there is a better chance of having an early morning tee time. In the crisp night air, heat is quickly escaping, so we might see a frost delay on the course at dawn.
Understanding the Damage
A wide range of factors goes into first damage, such as turf varietal, turf health, the frost severity, and the amount of traffic that takes place on the frosty. Frost grass means that the water in its plant cells might freeze and expand. Trending on that grass in such a frigid state (by foot, cart, or anything else that will put pressure on it) will most likely cause those icy molecules to shatter. The turf is not necessarily permanently unrepairable at this point; however, you will certainly be able to see the impact soon after in discoloration. This is an aesthetic issue as it is structural damage to the plant. Golf is best played and enjoyed on healthy, beautiful, well-maintained turf. The best rule of thumb is that golfers should not be allowed on the course if there is frost on the ground. Although, if it is just a small area under the shade of a tree, you can ask golfers to avoid that spot. Maintenance crews sometimes lightly spray the turf with a hose to get the frost off a green; however, your best bet will be to wait and allow the sun to melt the first away.
About T2 Green Insurance
T2Green Insurance provides the best customized and comprehensive protection for your club, resort, or golf management business. Our niche expertise and sole focus is ensuring this class, while our industry professionals are dedicated to providing exceptional results so that you can feel confident with your coverage. T2Green offers specialized coverage options that are unique in the industry. With our exclusive program unlike anything else on the market, you can feel peace of mind with protection that is tailored to your club’s unique needs. T2Green is driven by innovation and responsiveness in both coverage solutions and customer service. We understand the challenges that are presented in varying locations and seasons to write policies for clubs from coast to coast and everywhere in between so you can operate with confidence, no matter what conditions arise. Reach us at 844-223-9005 with any questions or so we can begin tailoring a package that works best for your club.
