The prolonged dry spell is coming to an end, with more normal weather forecast for the rest of the month. We (and the farmers) do need some rain: recently we’ve had to hand-water the high spots on the greens, which is normally a summer task. Overnight temperatures are on the rise - it will be good to see an end to the almost daily light frosts which have kept the ground cold and growth sluggish. Nevertheless, greens are now into their normal summer pattern of alternate cutting and rolling. It’s too soon to consider resuming Stimp measurement - until we have normal growth we wouldn’t be measuring the right thing.

Tees have been sprayed with wetting agent, a mild detergent that breaks down the waxy hydrophobic exudate caused by some fungi that leads to ‘dry patch’, which prevents water penetrating the soil.

The rough mowers will be back in action this week, taking over from the Ventrac. We’ve been waiting for some parts for the big mowers - they get worked hard over rough ground and need regular maintenance. We have taken a cut of the 4” rough - a collar of intermediate growth between the normal 2” rough and the jungle which is intended to reduce the number of balls disappearing, never to be seen again.

The Environmental Working Group are going to have another attempt to establish some wildflower colour around the course . Some preparatory mowing has been carried out in several areas.

Course committee