This has been an age-old battle that continues to be waged. Trees and turfgrass are plants each requiring different growing conditions, light requirements, nutrition requirements, and moisture needs.
Golf courses and homeowners across the country are beginning to pay attention to the turfgrass they so lovingly care for. One of the main culprits of poor turf growth is too much shade. Consequently many larger, older trees are being thinned, limbed-up, or simply removed. Trees and grasses do not mutually exist together. Grasses do not grow in the forests and trees do not flourish in the prairies. However, with some common sense and knowledge, they can peacefully coexist.
Problems occur when the care of trees and turf are not separated. Management requirements of each tend to compromise the other. Grass growing under a shade tree is usually weak, thin, and subject to weed invasion. Not an ideal situation, especially on a putting green where players expect perfect conditions. Putting surfaces need 8 hours of direct sunlight per day or thin turf with no tolerance for wear and tear will occur. Attempting to explain to a green committee the necessity of tree removal is a daunting task. Ecological tree removal often clashes with political and emotional issues. People in general do not like to cut down trees.
Shade from trees reduces turf quality and quantity. Light quality is the crucial issue. The green tree leaves filter the critical light wavelengths for photosynthesis. Turfgrass receives less light but also poorer light quality. Shade remains a major stress factor for turfgrass.
Shading is the main reason for poor turfgrass performance beneath trees. Reduced airflow and increased humidity levels may contribute to disease issues. An increase of air movement usually results in a decrease of diseases. Tree roots compete with grass for both water and nutrients. Root competition can promote stress but lack of light is the primary problem.
Morning shade has a great negative impact on turfgrass. Trees on the east and southeast sides of golf greens and properties create this morning shade. These areas do not receive the benefit of early morning sunlight and additionally dew does not evaporate quickly, thus extending cooler leaf and soil temperatures. Eliminate the morning shade issue by limbing-up, thinning, or by removing the entire tree. Trees that block morning sunlight must be considered for removal. Morning sun is more valuable than afternoon sun, so take heed.
Despite their differences, turf and trees can peacefully coexist and even thrive together. Achieving that balance can be attained. Armed with an understanding of how each affects the other, decisions can be reached regarding methods to modify the environment and maintenance procedures that will optimize the growing conditions for both. Good planning and proper tree selection is crucial.