Fertilization & Pest Control

Grounds Crew
⚖️All pesticide applications require a Missouri-licensed applicator or direct supervision by one. Do not improvise on products or rates.
🌱 Spring (Mar–Apr)
Starter fertilizer after dormancy breaks. Soil temp must be consistently above 50°F. Don't rush — cold wet soil wastes product.
☀️ Early Summer (May–Jun)
Slow-release nitrogen to fairways and roughs. Light, conservative feeding on greens — avoid pushing growth during heat stress.
🍂 Fall (Sep–Oct)
Primary fertilization season. Balanced application to build root reserves for winter. Overseed thin areas after fertilizing.
📊 Annual Soil Test
Test pH and nutrients annually (fall preferred). Results drive next year's program. Do not guess at rates.
🌿
Applying Fertilizer
1
Review application plan from superintendent first
2
Calibrate spreader for the specific product and rate
Over-application burns turf. Recheck after any adjustments.
3
Wear PPE: gloves, dust mask, eye protection
4
Apply to dry turf — irrigate lightly after
Activates product and prevents leaf burn.
5
Stay clear of water features and drainage inlets
6
Log every application (see documentation below)

Common Problems in Missouri

Brown Patch
Circular brown patches in summer humidity. Treat with fungicide; avoid evening irrigation.
Fungal
Dollar Spot
Small tan spots in spring/fall. Often linked to low nitrogen. Fungicide if widespread.
Fungal
White Grubs
Dead patches in late summer that lift like carpet. Preventive control in June–July before eggs hatch.
Insect
Crabgrass
Pre-emergent in early spring (soil temp 50–55°F, late March MO). Timing is critical — post-emergent is much harder.
Weed
Armyworms
Can devastate a fairway in 24–48 hours. Contact superintendent immediately when spotted.
Act fast
🧪
Pesticide Application
1
Identify correctly before treating
Misidentification wastes money and can cause more damage.
2
Try cultural controls first (IPM)
Mowing height adjustments, irrigation timing, drainage — before reaching for chemicals.
3
Use the product labeled for the specific pest and turf type
4
Apply on calm days — wind under 10 mph
5
Post re-entry interval signage — keep golfers off treated areas

Required Documentation (Missouri Law — 2 years)