Frost Delays Are on the Way

With colder temperatures upon us frost delays are coming. When frost is present play will be delayed until the frost has melted. This is done to prevent damage that affects the quality of the playing surface and could potentially be very expensive to repair.

Frost is basically frozen dew that has crystallized on the grass, making it hard and brittle (Figure 1). A grass blade is actually 90% water, therefore it freezes. Because of the short mowing height, putting greens are most affected by frost. Walking on frost-covered greens causes the plant to break and cell walls rupture, thereby losing its ability to function normally. Once the membrane is broken, much like an egg, it cannot be put back together (GCSAA.org).



Figure 1. Close up photo of frost on a turfgrass plant.

Damage from ignoring frost delays will come 2-4 days later (Figures 2,3). Thinning and off color turf will result. Because of the cold temperatures the grass will not be able to regrow in the area leaving thin turf or even dirt.

Figure 2. Damage to grass after carts have driven through frost (photo courtesy Tommy Witt).

Figure 3. Footprints on a putting green after someone putted during a frost delay.

Here is a USGA educational video explaining further the effects of frost.

Please do your part to keep our grass healthy during winter months by adhering to frost delays. Call the pro shop on chilly mornings to see what time the frost delay is tentatively scheduled to be lifted so you will not be inconvenienced.