Turf Agronomy Update - May
20 MAY 2026
As soil temperatures continue to rise and consistent growth begins, May marks the
true start of our active agronomic season. The turf is now responding to longer days
and warmer conditions, which allows us to begin many of the foundational practices
that prepare the golf course for the months ahead.
Below is an overview of what you can expect to see around the property in May.
Weed Control Program
With active turf growth comes the emergence of broadleaf weeds. Throughout May,
we will begin our selective weed control applications across fairways and rough.
Timing is critical. Treating weeds while they are actively growing allows us to target
unwanted species effectively while minimizing stress on the surrounding turf. A
dense, healthy stand of grass is the best long-term defense against weeds, and our
program is designed to promote exactly that.
Members may notice slight discoloration in treated weeds in the days following
application — this is normal and indicates the product is working as intended.
Primary Grass Cutting & Definition
As growth increases, mowing frequency will also increase across all playing
surfaces.
You will begin to see:
- More refined fairway definition
- Consistent rough heights
- Improved surface uniformity
Height of cut adjustments are made gradually to protect root development and avoid
unnecessary stress. Early season patience ensures stronger turf heading into
summer.
Verti-Cutting, Topdressing & Aeration
May is also when our first significant cultural practices take place.
Verti-cutting helps stand the turf upright and removes excess lateral growth,
improving ball roll and surface consistency.
Topdressing with light sand applications smooths surfaces and gradually dilutes
organic matter, which enhances firmness and drainage.
Aeration, while temporarily disruptive, relieves compaction and allows air, water, and
nutrients to move more freely into the root zone. Strong roots now will determine how
well the turf performs during the heat of July and August.
While these practices may create short-term changes in appearance, they are
essential to delivering consistent, high-quality conditions throughout the season.
May is about establishing strength. The work completed this month lays the
groundwork for both peak playing conditions and summer resilience.
Sincerely,
Bill McAllister
Golf Course Superintendent
RattleSnake Point Golf Club