After 9.5" of rain, we were unable to mow greens for 3 days. They were very hairy and after blowing and mowing the greens, we noticed black spots in several areas. What is going on? Scroll down for the answer below. This picture was taken from the 16th green at HCC.
A: During heavy fall rains, leaves fall off trees and get matted into piles and lie on the greens for extended periods (up to 3 days in this case). The wet leaves are starting to decompose and leave behind a greasy looking black spot that is composed of leaf cellulose, pollen and other leaf matter. Another mowing and drier air will make it go away in no time. To the novice, small patches of black turf can appear to be a major issue.
