To obtain knowledge regarding dandelion occurrence and dandelion morphology/ appearance over the growing season and examine whether these are affected by a vertical cutting regime.
• To obtain some indications of how dandelions appear over the entire growing season under a frequent mowing/grazing regime.
• To evaluate the effect of the superficial verticutting on playing quality.
At Värpinge GC, dandelions (Taraxacum sp.) affect playing quality. Since 2010, special vertical cutting equipment has been tested. There has been no clear effect of superficial verticutting (of leaves) on dandelion occurrence, overall and at each treatment time. However, there seems to be a tendency for less weeds in general in 2014, compared with 2010 and 2011.
The variation within season, between seasons and between the two fairways is pronounced, although the degree of cover of dandelions is generally low, often below 5%. Verticutting of dandelions may thus be a way to manage this weed in order to create a better playing surface. In 2017, work was performed on the report and a field day was held in spring.
At the field day, the project was presented together with other multifunctional initiatives at Värpinge GC. The following themes were presented and discussed: 1. Weed control of dandelion with a special vertical cutter. Weed control was discussed on-site in the trials and weed control equipment (Toro) was demonstrated. 2. Grazing with sheep of the entire course; what it does and how it is achieved in practice. 3. Organic vegetable cultivation in CSA format on golf course roughs. This is a social project in collaboration with Lund municipality. 4. Crane track – free architectural golf course for children up to 12 years. A totally unique course with reversible playing direction devised by the course architect.
| 2014 | 2016 | 2017 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STERF | 75 | 50 | 14 | 139 |
| Other sources | 21 | 6 | 0 | 27 |
| Total | 96 | 56 | 14 | 166 |
