We are entering a time of the year when things slow down on the golf course. The grass is not growing as much, less water is being applied, and as a result there is less mowing. There is one aspect, however, that is picking up speed, and that is the threat of frost.
Frost is caused by the turf temperature reaching 32 degrees or below and turning the dew on the grass to ice crystals. This process changes the grass from a soft, springy surface into a fragile brittle surface that cracks when pressure is applied. That is why we have frost delays. Now, while it is frustrating from a golfing perspective to be on a frost delay, it is equally as frustrating from a maintenance stand point because we are not able to do the things we need to get done. However, it is imperative to understand the reasons and effects of why there are frost delays.
Golf cart traffic on frosty turf results in damage that appears 2-3 days later, such as the cart traffic damage seen below. Walking on frosty greens also produces foot shaped patterns of brown, dead turf. In both cases, turf is slow to recover, leaving unsightly brown areas for weeks or even months. Frost is usually an early morning problem that is relieved once the sun comes up and air temperatures rise. Once frost crystals melt turf is safe for foot and vehicular traffic. There is really only one way to avoid frost damage, and that is to avoid all traffic, golfers, carts, and maintenance equipment, until it has melted.
