Newsletter 16 December
Maintaining Our Greens Without Pesticides: Current Situation and Outlook
Managing our greens in a “zero pesticide” regime is a constant challenge, and this season in particular confronts us with weather conditions that favour the development of fungal diseases. We therefore want to provide a clear update on the current situation, the work carried out by our Greenkeepers, and the actions planned for the coming months.
Increased Disease Pressure
In summer, our greens are generally exposed to Dollar Spot, a pathogen capable of causing significant damage in a very short time. Thanks to an integrated management strategy — precision nutrition, optimal moisture management, continuous risk analysis via our sensors and weather station — we have been able to control this disease effectively.
This winter, we are facing winter Fusarium, which is particularly aggressive this year. The mild and wet conditions at the end of the year strongly favour this fungus, and despite a strict program of aeration, moisture control, and biostimulation, it remains difficult to manage in a zero-pesticide context.
Our teams, however, remain closely aligned with scientific research and prioritize testing promising new methods as soon as they become available. We assure you that everything is being done, within the legal framework, to restore the quality of our greens as soon as possible.
Restoration and Goals for Spring
Ongoing and upcoming actions include:
- Maintaining surface smoothness (planimetry),
- Reseeding with more resistant varieties,
- Rebuilding a dense and uniform turf.
The goal is clear: to have healthy, resilient, and high-performing greens in the spring.
Green Speed: Finding the Right Balance
Following our latest satisfaction survey, several members expressed a desire for faster greens. We have heard this request and will take it into account next season.
However, an essential balance must be maintained between:
- A satisfying speed,
- And the health of the turf.
Effective nutrition depends on photosynthesis, the soil, and foliar inputs. This means that slightly longer leaves strengthen turf resilience. Cutting them too short would weaken the greens and increase their susceptibility to pathogens.
Fortunately, several mechanical levers allow us to improve speed while preserving turf health:
- Density management,
- Improving surface smoothness,
- Controlling mowing volume.
Our Greenkeepers will therefore continue to seek the best compromise between playing performance and sustainability.
We thank you for your understanding and trust. Our team remains fully committed to providing the best playing conditions throughout the year.
The Greenkeepers Team
Brussels Drohme Golf Club
Hello Everyone,
Have you already participated in our weekend competitions?
Do you play in one of our sections (Juniors, Men’s, Ladies, Seniors)?
Or are you perhaps just discovering the sporting life at Brussels Drohme Golf Club?
Did you know that our club also has several teams proudly representing Brussels Drohme Golf Club in external competitions throughout the year?
For the Seniors, we take part in the AFG competitions, the Spring Challenge, and the South-East Meetings.
And of course, we participate in the Federal Interclubs, a highlight of the sporting season.
This year, 5 teams are registered:
- 3 Men’s teams (M2, M3, M4)
- 2 Ladies’ teams (D2, D3)
The Interclubs will take place over three days: Saturday 25 April, Sunday 26 April, and Friday 1 May.
Would you like to get more involved in the sporting life of the club?
Would you like to participate in these events as a player or caddy?
Good news: there is still time to join the adventure!
Those who are not yet members but are interested can join Brussels Drohme Golf Club to fully participate in these competitions.
Please note: in accordance with the federal regulations, only players who have Brussels Drohme Golf Club as their home club can register for the Interclubs.
Depending on the category, a maximum handicap is required:
- 20 for Men
- 24 for Ladies
For any questions or to express your interest, please contact the captain at: bdgc.capitaine@gmail.com
We look forward to seeing you on the fairways and defending the colours of Brussels Drohme Golf Club together!
Sportingly,
The Captain
Shop and Secretariat Opening Hours
🎄🎅🏻⛳️ 🎄🎅🏻⛳️ 🎄
During the holiday period, it is important for us that our team members can spend time with their families and enjoy these special moments.
For this reason, the following hours will apply:
Wednesday, 24 December
The Secretariat will close at 12:00. The course, practice areas, and lockers will remain accessible until 15:00 at the latest.
Thursday, 25 December
All facilities will be closed and inaccessible. ⚠️ The entire site will be on alarm, and access to lockers will not be possible.
Wednesday, 31 December
The Secretariat will close at 12:00.
The course, practice areas, and lockers will remain accessible until 15:00 at the latest.
Thursday, 1 January
All facilities will be closed and inaccessible. ⚠️ The entire site will be on alarm, and access to lockers will not be possible.
