Layers of ice have formed on the majority of the greens as a result of two rain events we had in January. On February 7th to 9th we attempted to brake-up this ice layer with our aerator. We were able to brake-up the ice to help the turf respire and assist in ice melting when we get warm days. We don’t want to remove all of the ice until we know the temperatures are increasing but we do want the grass to breathe. The ice is acting as an insulator and you don’t want to expose the insulated turf to colder temperatures. If the ice is present in mid March we will be breaking it up more and attempting to remove as much as possible.
There is no perfect process to removing ice except warm temperatures. The ice is at different thicknesses depending on green undulations. In breaking up the ice we do not want to damage the winter covers or physically damage the greens surface. The ice will be attached to the cover and the grass plant itself so being too aggressive may damage both.
There is the potential of damage to occur and the extent of any damage will depend on each individual area. On our greens the Poa Annua bluegrass will be more susceptible to damage from extended ice cover. The bentgrasses we have been over seeding with are hardier plants and have the best chance of survival. Once the ice has been removed, it will be important to provide some time for the greens to overcome this period of stress and recover from any damage that may occur.
The fairways also have a considerable amount if ice build up on them. This will be something we will monitor but at this time there is little we can do until mid to late March when we know warmer weather is coming.
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