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• News 2012
• February hot spots

The incredibly mild conditions so far this winter - with a mild November and the warmest December on record - has highlighted the current topsy-turvy weather patterns. Some areas experienced no frosts until the second week of January this year, compared to the record cold and prolonged snow experienced in the winter of 2010/11. Groundsmen and greenkeepers have had to contend with turf growth continuing, all be it slowly, right through the winter.

If February repeats the experiences of recent years, there is every chance that further mild weather will be on the cards. Since 1997, 14 of the 15 seasons have seen above long-term average temperatures for February, excepting 2010. Although last year was relatively dull, the lengthening days do mean we typically enjoy 50% more hours of sunshine in February, compared to January.

Whilst parts of northern England and Scotland have already experienced record rainfall this winter, for many, particularly in the southern regions, one of the greatest concerns has been the lack of water to replenish groundwater aquifers - raising the spectre of shortages and early restrictions on irrigation over the coming season. In recent years, February rainfall has typically fallen well short of average for large parts of the country, and has proven a precursor to exceptionally dry spring conditions. Water use efficiency and getting the most from available resources with wetting agent programmes is likely to be more important than ever this season. 

The lack of frost to really penetrate the ground is likely to have allowed Fusarium Patch to develop in the turf and thatch layer, where it could flare up with the onset of wet surface conditions. Using the free GreenCast website - www.greencast.co.uk - to predict periods of disease conducive weather can help turf mangers time preventative fungicide applications more effectively and get the most out of the treatments. 

Whilst turf growth remains slow or non-existent in cold conditions, the Contact+ activity of Medallion TL is most appropriate. However, once consistent growth commences in spring, the fast moving 'cool weather systemic' activity of Banner Maxx may be more appropriate; during the difficult intervening period, when growth can be inconsistent, the multi-active Instrata covers both options.  

With typically little potential for recovery through February, protecting against any loss in turf cover and quality, as a result of disease attacks, remains essential t. Any damage will be further exacerbated by heavy wear and tear, as players seek to make up for games cancelled or course closures due to frost and snow.