A well-maintained bowling green or golf course is essential for a consistent and enjoyable game. Achieving the perfect surface requires a combination of proper maintenance techniques, the right equipment, and an understanding of seasonal care.
Soil Preparation and Drainage
The foundation of a perfect green starts beneath the surface!
• Cut existing grass short
• Rake the surface of the soil to remove dead grass and debris.
• Scarify to remove thatch and to loosen the top soil, which will improve seed-to-soil contact.
• To improve drainage, aeration is crucial. The soil should be well-draining yet able to retain enough moisture to keep the grass healthy. Heavy clay soils can lead to waterlogging, while sandy soils drain too quickly, requiring more frequent watering. Regular spiking or hollow-tining (removing small plugs of soil) allows water to penetrate the surface and prevents compaction, which can lead to uneven growth. A properly drained green ensures that the grass remains healthy and playable throughout the year.
• Before sowing grass seed, ensure the surface is flat and even.
Choosing the Right Grass
The type of grass used on a bowling green and golf course is critical. Your choice of grass seed for bowling greens and fairways will depend on the climate, the amount of foot traffic, and the level of maintenance you can provide. Opt for a pre-mixed seed blend specifically designed for bowling greens or golf courses, which usually combines different cultivars of common varieties including bentgrass for a fine, dense texture, fescue for drought resistance and a smooth playing surface, and dwarf ryegrass for hardwearing, high traffic greens. Using a mix of grass types can help balance durability and smoothness.
At Boston Seeds, we supply only top quality, fine-leaved species of golf and bowling grass seed to give the best possible playing surface, plus all year round colour. Our EuroGrass Pro Greens Grass Seed is a traditional blend of 80% fescue and 20% browntop bent, ideal for new sowings and overseeding alike, while the EuroGrass Pro Fairways Grass Seed contains ryegrass and fescues, perfect for golf fairways and rough.
Sowing Your Grass Seed
• Seed application - spread the seed evenly across the prepared area using a lawn spreader for precise distribution.
• Light rolling - lightly roll the surface after sowing to press the seeds into the soil.
• Watering - water regularly to maintain consistent moisture levels, especially during germination. Avoid pooling the water in one particular area. Water daily until the new sprouted grass reaches an approximate height of 4 cm or 2 inches.
Maintaining a Bowling Green or Golf Course
Ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure your green remains in tiptop condition and should involve the following:
• Mowing and rolling - a short, even cut is essential for a fast and smooth playing surface. A cylinder mower is recommended over a rotary mower, as it provides a finer cut. Rolling the green helps to firm up the surface and ensure an even playing field. However, excessive rolling can lead to compaction, so it should be done in moderation. A light rolling once or twice a week is usually sufficient.
• Feeding - grass health depends on proper fertilisation and watering. A well-balanced fertilisation schedule should include a high-nitrogen feed such as KissMyGrass Spring & Summer Lawn and Sportsfield Fertiliser 11.5.5 to promote strong growth in spring and summer, with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium feed like KissMyGrass Autumn & Winter Vitality Liquid Lawn Fertiliser to strengthen roots in the autumn. Minimal feeding is required in winter, to prevent excessive growth.
• Watering - watering should be done deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Watering in the early morning or late evening helps prevent evaporation and ensures efficient absorption.
Controlling Weeds, Pests, and Diseases
Unwanted weeds, pests, and fungal diseases can ruin the quality of a bowling green or golf course. Common issues include:
• Moss and algae – often a result of poor drainage and shade. Improving aeration and sunlight exposure can help.
• Worm casts – these can create an uneven surface. Applying a worm suppressant can reduce their activity.
• Fungal diseases – problems like fusarium patch can damage the turf. Applying the right fungicides and ensuring good airflow can prevent outbreaks.
Regular maintenance and early detection of these issues will keep the green in prime condition.
Ongoing Seasonal Maintenance
Greens require different care throughout the year:
• Spring - aerate, fertilise, and start regular mowing.
• Summer - maintain mowing, rolling, and watering. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
• Autumn - scarify (remove thatch), overseed, and apply autumn fertiliser.
• Winter - reduce mowing, aerate to prevent compaction, and avoid excessive play.
Grass Seed for Bowling Greens from Boston Seeds
Achieving the perfect bowling green requires dedication and consistent maintenance and great grass seed! By focusing on soil health, grass selection, mowing, feeding, and seasonal care, you can create a smooth and professional-quality playing surface. With the right techniques, top quality Golf and Bowling grass Seed, and Lawn Fertiliser from Boston Seeds, your green will remain in top condition for years to come, ensuring every game is played on the best possible surface.
For more information or advice, our experienced and friendly team is just an email or a call away! So, call us on 01205 280069 and let us help you create the perfect green!
