Trees can be a very controversial subject on a golf course and their impact on the health and playability of the turf is significant. Tree management and removal are often two of the most controversial topics in many facilities. To help guide tree management decisions and create consensus among decision makers, it is helpful to seek advice from outside experts, such as golf course architects and USGA agronomists. Many courses require working with an agronomist to develop a tree management plan be extremely useful. One of the key elements of a successful tree management plan is having well-defined criteria for how trees are evaluated. Some key questions to ask are outlined below:
Does the tree have a negative impact on the grass growing environment? Shade, limited air circulation, root competition and circulation problems are all things to evaluate when it comes to trees and turf. Keep in mind that the sun’s path varies throughout the year and different grasses are affected differently by shade. It’s no coincidence that the worst quality grass is often found near trees.
Is the tree healthy? Unhealthy trees are dangerous, unsightly, drop debris, and become increasingly difficult to remove as they continue to decline. Some species are more susceptible to pests and should be avoided in new plantings.
How does the tree impact gameplay? The wrong tree in the wrong location can unduly penalize high handicap players, cause playing lanes to narrow over time, and change the design intent of a hole.
Would removing the tree expose a beautiful view or highlight other surrounding specimen trees? You’d be surprised how often great views of natural features like streams, rock outcroppings or horizons are blocked by trees. Additionally, if you are fortunate enough to have large specimen trees throughout the property, take a look to see if smaller, less desirable trees are negatively affecting them.
What tree species are best for your golf course? Some trees have undesirable characteristics such as shallow rooting, weak or low branches, or debris production requiring regular cleaning.
These are just a few questions to ask when evaluating the trees on your golf course. Hopefully, answering these questions will help create consensus among your institution’s decision-makers. If you would like further assistance in developing a tree management plan, please do not hesitate to contact your local representative. USGA Agronomist.
Agronomists from the central region:
Zach Nicoludis, Regional Director – [email protected]
Paul Jacobs, agronomist – [email protected]
