When Hand-Watering Greens Becomes Vital
Super’ s Corner ►
The Heat is On!
When Hand-Watering Greens Becomes Vital
by Jacob Rockhold, superintendent
This month starts with a Big Bang as we celebrate our nations’ 250th birthday! Where did the time go! We also begin the heart of the summer golf season when a golf course’ s need for water is key. Golf courses require the most irrigation during the hottest months, July and August. I have talked a lot about aerification and other tools superintendents use to keep greens healthy in the past; however, this time of year is when all those previous processes, however annoying for golfers, will keep the grass strong and healthy throughout the season.
One of the most important tools that superintendents use this time of year is a water hose. As temperatures rise, hand watering is vital. Evaporation, wind, and heat all work together to consume water near the surface of the ground. The grass is also trying to take in as much water as possible for its survival; therefore, golf courses use the most water this time of year.
Golf course irrigation systems are critical but sometimes inefficient due to wind or design flaws. That’ s why hand watering is often required. When hand-watering greens, superintendents can visually ensure that all areas of the greens are getting the water they need. Hand watering is much more efficient than sprinklers for that reason. Also, sprinklers try to cover the entire green. Depending on the design of the greens, like slopes and valleys, not all areas of the green need the same amount of water. Areas at the bottom of slopes usually have more moisture than the ridges on the top of slopes. By hand-watering, we can make sure that the water reaches the areas that need it most.
The chart below shows the amount of water used per year on an average 18-hole golf course. Figures do not include practice areas and other clubhouse grounds.
Tee Boxes Fairway Roughs Greens
One Million Gallons fills approximately one-and a-half Olympic swimming pools.
Source: Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
You will see maintenance staff hand-watering a lot this time of year. I promise you that they aren’ t watering near you or in front of you on purpose! So please don’ t hit into them— it’ s dangerous— Ouch!
14 JULY 2026 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE