Why Do Golf Courses Use Hand-Watering?
Even with only a small swatch of grass, many homeowners have likely experienced the lack of uniformity from their sprinkler systems. So just imagine trying to keep up with upwards of 180 acres for an 18-hole course, and then try to have a little patience the next time you roll up to a green to find a member of the grounds crew hand watering.
You might wonder why the irrigation system isn’t handling the watering at night – trust us, it is! But meticulously maintaining a golf course for the perfect playing conditions requires balance, and hand-watering often plays a crucial and supplemental role, particularly during hot summer months when mounds, south-facing slopes and high traffic areas tend to rapidly dry out.
One of the primary reasons for hand-watering greens is the precision it allows. Even the most advanced irrigation systems, while efficient for broader areas, might not provide the fine-tuned watering necessary for the greens. Sprinkler heads might throw water 20 feet in the air and 60 feet horizontally; the spray can thus be impacted by wind and land where it is not needed.
Too much water on a green can lead to shallow roots, disease or algae, while too little water can create drought stress.
Hand-watering allows greenskeepers to precisely target specific areas and adjust water amounts based on real-time conditions and fluctuating weather. Rather than risk overwatering the night before, the crew will often use hand-held soil moisture meters to best determine hot spots that need supplemental hand-watering. Whether it’s increasing watering schedules during hot, dry spells or reducing water during periods of excessive rain, the ability to quickly adapt and tailor the irrigation helps to maintain consistent playing conditions and best preserve turf health.
Courses typically hand-water greens in the morning, hoping to give the green enough moisture to make it through the day. However, chronically dry areas, especially during hot and windy conditions may require more than one application.
Water conservation is also a critical concern for golf courses, especially in regions that are prone to drought or water scarcity. Hand-watering allows greenskeepers to optimize water usage by applying only what is necessary and avoiding unnecessary runoff. By carefully monitoring moisture levels and adjusting watering practices accordingly, golf courses can contribute to environmental sustainability.
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