CCH Greens and Grounds Committee Update October 3rd, 2025

The Country Club of Hudson

Greens & Grounds Committee

Update October 3, 2025

You may notice some differences in our rough soon. This is part of a multi-year effort to enhance the consistency of our rough and improve the quality & playability if your ball finds its way into the rough. We will continue with this treatment program over the next 3 to 5 years with gradual improvement year over year. This is all part of the Greens and Grounds Committee's Plan for continuous improvement in our golf course conditions.

Creeping Bentgrass and Poa annua have become established in our desired mix of Kentucky Bluegrass and perennial ryegrass roughs. This fall, as part of our rough renovation program, we will begin work to reduce these unwanted grasses and restore the rough to its intended turf composition.

We will be applying Mesotrione, a selective herbicide that targets bentgrass and Poa annua by disrupting pigment production. As this process takes effect, you may notice some temporary visual changes that are expected and indicate the treatment is working:

• Whitening of Bentgrass and Poa annua – Within 5–7 days, patches of these grasses will lose color, turning white or pale yellow before declining.

• Mild Bluegrass Response – Kentucky bluegrass may also show some temporary whitening but typically recovers quickly.

• Patchiness – As Bentgrass and Poa annua die out, the rough may appear uneven or thin for several weeks. Overseeding and natural recovery will restore density.

• No Residue – Mesotrione leaves no surface film or residue on shoes, balls, or equipment. 

What to Expect in the Timeline

• First Week: Whitening of bentgrass and Poa annua begins.

• Weeks 2–4: Continued decline of unwanted grasses; patchiness may increase. We will begin over seeding new desired species of grass into these areas with minor disruption.

• Weeks 4+: Kentucky bluegrass/Ryegrass and overseeded turf begin filling in, improving turf uniformity.

In the long run, this program will create a healthier, more consistent rough with improved playability and appearance. While there may be some short-term patchiness, these effects are temporary and necessary for long-term turf quality.

This year’s focus will be on greens surrounds, rough, and intermediate roughs. In future seasons, we will continue addressing infested areas as part of an ongoing maintenance strategy. Over time, this work will become less disruptive as the turf balance shifts firmly toward Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass.

We appreciate your patience and support as we carry out this important project to protect and improve the quality of the course.

Thank you

Bob Healey

Greens and Grounds Committee Chairman