Members and Guests of Willowbrook:
I hope you find this an interesting read from the TN Turfgrass Association and University of TN Department of Agriculture.
The investment of our new grass seed in 2022, along with the progression of adding better equipment, is making a huge impact for our members and guests.
Onward and Upward,
David Burris
From Tennessee Turfgrass Association:
Our team wanted to reach out to you given the stressful summer weather that affected so many of your members across the state of Tennessee, particularly those managing creeping bentgrass putting greens. Conditions across Tennessee from June 1 – August 31 were very stressful on even the most optimally managed creeping bentgrass. There is a strong case to be made that the summer of 2025 was more challenging than 2012, a year where historic temperature benchmarks were set across the state.
Below is an overview of recorded weather conditions1 in Knoxville, TN during the 90-day period of June 1- August 30, 2025:
• 39 days where air temperature was ≥ 90 F
• 35 days with recorded rainfall (totaling 3.28”)
• 88 days where maximum relative humidity was ≥ 90%
• Daily relative humidity averaged 76%
These conditions posed immense stress on creeping bentgrass putting greens in 2025, as they were hospitable for numerous diseases that are problematic in summer. Even with fungicide programs in place, creeping bentgrass greens with excessive organic matter accumulation in the rootzone struggled due to moisture being retained for extended periods.
This was particularly true on putting greens established with older creeping bentgrass cultivars that lack stress tolerance. Historic summer weather, coupled with rounds-played being at record levels on many courses, it is no surprise that several clubs lost grass over the past three months.
We are sure that your members look forward to putting the summer of 2025 in the rearview mirror. This has been the most challenging summer on creeping bentgrass in nearly two decades. Luckily, we’ve entered the month of September and more favorable conditions for creeping bentgrass growth (and recovery) are ahead.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Pro Shop!
