Frozen Turf

The temperature last night dropped down to the mid-20's and has provided our first Spring frost.  Frost delays are very likely this time of year, and the time required to "burn off" can be substantial.  Frost is essentially frozen dew that forms when the temperature is at, or near the freezing point. Ice crystals that form on the outside of the plant will harden and can freeze the cellular structure within. When frozen, the normally resilient plant cells become brittle and are easily crushed. When the cell membranes are damaged, the plant loses its ability to function and can potentially die. Although you will not see any immediate damage if you walk across or drive on frosted turf, the proof will be evident within 48 to 72 hours as the leaves die and turn brownish-black. The maintenance staff monitors specific areas throughout the course on cool mornings to determine whether frost is present, and the decision to allow play is based on when those areas will be frost-free.  An easy way to tell if frost is present is by running your hand across the grass and if the dew wipes away it's safe to walk on the turf.

Click here to watch a USGA educational video on Frost