Repair Pitchmarks & Divots

Hello members,

As golfers, we all want to play on a course that’s in great condition – smooth greens, lush fairways, and perfectly manicured rough (well, at least near the edge!). But achieving this doesn’t just depend on the greenkeeping team; it requires a little help from everyone. One of the simplest yet most impactful ways you can contribute is by repairing pitch marks on greens and replacing divots on fairways.

Here’s why these small actions make a big difference:

Protecting the Greens

Pitch marks are caused when a ball lands on the green, compressing and damaging the grass. Left unrepaired, a single pitch mark can take weeks to fully recover, leading to uneven surfaces and slower greens. Worse still, unrepaired marks often result in dead grass, leaving unsightly scars and disrupting the roll of putts.

Repairing a pitch mark only takes a few seconds but makes an immediate impact. A properly repaired mark will recover in 24-48 hours, while an unrepaired one can take up to three weeks – or longer – to heal. By repairing your mark (and one or two others nearby), you’re helping maintain smoother, healthier greens for everyone.

Preserving the Fairways

When you take a divot, it leaves an exposed patch of soil that’s vulnerable to drying out, compaction, and weed growth. If divots are left unreplaced, they can turn into unsightly bare patches that not only affect playability but also take much longer to repair naturally.

Replacing your divot allows the grass to recover more quickly by keeping the roots in contact with the soil and protecting the area from further damage. In areas where the divot cannot be replaced, such as during winter conditions, using the divot mix provided on your trolley or buggy is just as effective.

Reducing the Workload on Greenkeepers

The greenkeeping team already works tirelessly to keep the course in top condition, but repairing pitch marks and replacing divots is a task that relies on the collective effort of members. When everyone does their part, it frees up time for the team to focus on other essential maintenance tasks that improve the course for all players.

Setting an Example for Others

Golf is a game built on respect – respect for the course, your fellow players, and the traditions of the game. By repairing pitch marks and replacing divots, you’re setting a great example for newer or younger golfers and helping to foster a culture of care and responsibility at the club.

The Bottom Line

A well-maintained course enhances the playing experience for everyone. So next time you’re on the green, take a moment to repair your pitch mark – and maybe one or two others. When you take a divot, replace it or use the divot mix provided. It’s a small effort that goes a long way toward keeping the course in fantastic shape for you and your fellow members.

Thank you for helping us maintain the course and ensuring it remains a joy to play for years to come.

See you out there,
Joe Smith
Head Greenkeeper