Pace Turf star Dr. Wendy Gelernter explains in her YouTube video what types of stress turfgrass goes through in the Summer months (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lg_CYn2YMvQ). Keep in mind that each golf course is different based on location, elevation, property/course resources, and climate conditions. What might work for one course doesn't always work on another.
The main point Dr. Gelernter makes has to do with the effects of turfgrass during extreme temperatures. During summer days reaching 90+ degrees Fahrenheit, cool-season turfgrass begins to show signs of "stress." These extreme temperatures will naturally cause damage to the turf canopy and its root structure. Warm-season grasses shows heat damage at temperatures 110+ degrees Fahrenheit.
To battle heat stress in the Summer we take all precautions necessary to precondition the course prior to, and reduce stress during the hot months. Most noticeably on the greens. Because they are bentgrass, a cool-season turf we keep a close eye on moisture levels, cutting heights, and implement a pest management program. These precautions reduce stress and promote healthy turf to push us through those record high Arizona temperatures.
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