Callawassie Island Agronomy: Week 13

Putting green construction on Magnolia 8 and 9 is moving along. The past two weeks the team from TDI has taken these two green complexes and transformed them into two much improved putting greens. Below are step by step photos of this transformation and the USGA putting green construction process. These greens will be built to USGA spec matching the other greens on the course. This process includes mirroring the putting surface contours in the sub-grade 16 inches deep. Once sub-grade is established, drain lines are installed throughout the sub-grade and back filled with drain rock. A blanket of gravel is spread throughout the putting green cavity 4 inches deep. Extra care is taken to ensure the 4 inches of gravel reflects the sub grade contours. The gravel layer should mirror the desired putting surface. Once the gravel is complete, 12 inches of greens mix is spread throughout the green over the gravel. Special testing was completed prior too construction to ensure the greens mix used "bridges" over the gravel layer. This bridging prevents the greens mix from migrating down into the gravel and clogging the drainage. Once the 12 inches of greens mix is installed, the team from TDI "floats" the green to ensure the final product is a reflection of the sub-grade and ultimately approved by the architect.