First Signs of Frost Are Here: frost formation and the effects it has on turfgrass

Being a golfer myself I dislike frost delays just as much as the next guy.  But as managers of the golf course our job is to please the golfers and do what's best for the health of the golf course, especially when dealing with frost on turfgrass.  So, how does frost form? And how does it affect the turfgrass?

Frost is caused by water vapor depositing as ice crystals on the plant.  What may surprise you is that frost may form even if air temperatures are above 32F.  The reasoning behind this is when turfgrass cools independently of the air from the dew point or freezing point, water droplets or ice crystals form.  Frost forms on turf when saturation occurs below freezing point.  This process can be enhanced on a clear night which causes more radiant cooling, than on a cloudy night typically warmer than the clear sky. 

If frost has formed on the turfgrass and any preasure contacts it, the cell structure within the plant breaks down.  This can result in temporary damage to the leaf tissue, go off color, or permanently damage the turfgrass.  As preventative measures we delay play on the golf course until the frost lifts from warming temperatures. 


During mornings with frost, we first allow temperatures to rise before setting the golf course up.  This means, waiting for the sun to rise.  As I mentioned earlier, on a clear night the frost may be more severe due to  much cooler surface temperatures.  When we are able to set the course up, we try to provide ourselves a head start before sending play out. 


As golf course managers we take frost damage very serious to ensure both the health of the turfgrass and quality playing conditions.  I hope this provides a basic understanding of frost and its effects on turfgrass. If you have any questions or comments please contact the maintenance department.


References:
*Palazzo, Antonio J., April 1999, "Frost Inhabition of Turfgrass"
http://www.crrel.usace.army.mil/library/specialreports/SR99_04.pdf
Accessed 24 November 2010