Vertical mowing approaches is an effective strategy for managing organic matter, reducing puffiness, encouraging upright growth and improving surface firmness. A downside of this practice is that the channels created can impact playability while recovery is taking place.
Approach design, surrounding slopes, bunker location and trying to minimize traffic on or near the front of a green can all play a role in deciding which direction to perform vertical mowing. If an approach is wide, it might be more efficient to vertical mow side to side or perpendicular to the line of play. However, this means golfers will mostly be hitting chip shots against the channels. When doing so, the club has a tendency to “snag” on the channels, which can lead to unhappy golfers.
A simple adjustment is to vertical mow in the direction of play so golfers are chipping with the vertical mowing lines – not against them. If this process is performed yearly, the angle can be adjusted slightly to stay mostly in the direction of play while impacting a different portion of the surface and rootzone than the year before.
Tractor-mounted vertical mowers are an excellent option for approaches. Operators can back up toward the putting green to perform this process in the direction of play. When compared to walk-behind vertical mowers, tractor-mounted options make it possible to complete the process more efficiently.
Taking the time to evaluate how all maintenance practices affect playability, not just vertical mowing, is a good habit to form. Making small adjustments can allow you to achieve your agronomic goals while minimizing negative impacts on the golf experience. Reach out to your regional USGA agronomist for more tips on striking a balance between agronomic practices and playability impacts.
Central Region Agronomists:
Zach Nicoludis, regional director, Central Region – znicoludis@usga.org
Tom Gould, agronomist – tgould@usga.org
Information on the USGA’s Course Consulting Service
Contact the Green Section Staff