This photo is a section from #8 green. Two different types of turf are apparent here: the dark green color is bentgrass, and the light green color is poa annua.
The challenge associated with managing two different grass types has to do with their growth patterns. On our greens, the bentgrass will exhibit growth earlier than the poa. As the bent begins growth, the poa still hangs tight and gets itself geared up for warmer weather and moisture. The overall result is bumpy greens early in the season. As temperatures climb and spring rains move in, the growth rates equal out and we are able to manipulate smooth putting surfaces once again.
So how long will it take? Aggressive growth of the greens arrives about the same time as when the trees are pushing leaves and home lawns need regular maintenance, i.e. mowing. Right now, we have seen a nice 'green up' on all areas of the golf course, but true growth will come as we move further into the spring. Again, moisture and improved soil temperatures play a major role in creating putting surfaces that roll true.
Why not promote only the bentgrass, as this grass seems to exhibit more desirable traits? We are moving into our second season of a bentgrass conversion program, and thus far I am very impressed with the results. Proper cultural practices will continue to shift our stand of grass toward the predominace of bentgrass. I am confident that our surfaces will only continue to improve.
