Green Consistency

Like green speed, there is much debate about surface consistency, both in terms of consistency across the green surface and consistency of playing condition over the season.

In order of their impact on green surface consistency these are the top 7 factors that you should bear in mind. Obviously there are others such as weather patterns, level of play etc, but these are largely out of the greenkeepers control and in any case do not figure highly in the management of green consistency.

1. Fertiliser Policy
2. Irrigation Management
3. Localised Dry Patch Management
4. Mowing Frequency
5. Thatch Layer Control and Management
6. Compaction Control and Relief
7. Sward Composition (grass types)

Again some surprises in there I am sure, particularly the major importance of your fertilisation policy and program. Next most important is Irrigation Management a very poorly understood element of green management. The tendency is either to over or under-water, with under-watering being the favoured approach of many clubs