Here are the general steps of how to build a golf course green.
1. DESIGN & PLANNING
We think this is one of the most important steps when building a golf course green. Ensuring you choose the correct location can impact upon the playability of your course, daily maintenance or even the health of the grass. You shouldn’t skip this step if you’re looking to successful build a green.
2. STRIP & EXCAVATE
Once you’ve agreed the location you will need to strip the area of any existing grass or sods. If you’re careful you can keep some of the sods to be reused in general course maintenance.
After the area has been stripped you should excavate to a depth of 20 inches (51cm).
3. DRAINAGE INSTALLATION
Poor drainage is a huge issue for any golf course, so it is imperative that you get it right. With the excavated area now exposed; 8-inch (20cm) drainage trenches need to be dug out at all the required locations. Pipes will then be laid within the trenches before they are filled with pea gravel.
4. GRAVEL COMPACTION
The entire area will be covered by a 4-inch (10cm) layer of pea gravel which then needs to be compacted to ensure strength & durability. This pea gravel layer allows water to pass through the grades during heavy rain fall.
5. ROOTZONE LAYER
A 2 inch (5cm) layer of rootzone will be placed on top of the compacted gravel. Rootzone is a type of soil that is generally created from a 60/40 mix of sand and sandy soils. This layer also needs to be compacted after it has been placed.
6. TOPSOIL
Now that your sub-grades have been created and compacted, you need to cover them with topsoil. This should consist of 60 percent sand and no more than 20 percent clay. Top the rootzone layer with around 14-inches (35cm) of topsoil, making sure to compact this layer.
Tip: If you’re building your green to USGA standard make sure the soil has been tested to meet this standard.
7. SEEDING
We recommend seeding any new greens because you will achieve an even colour. Sods can be used if you’re in a rush but if you are patient, seeding will give the best results.
8. GREEN EDGING
You may need to mark the edges of your green by sodding the perimeter with rougher grass.
Still not sure how to build a green? Get in touch with the Booth Golf & Leisure team to find out how we can help HERE
