Behind the Scenes: How Our Greenkeeping Team Maintains Pristine Fairways in Winter
Behind every smooth fairway and vibrant green is a dedicated team of greenkeepers who work tirelessly to maintain the course throughout the year, even during the colder months.
At Belton Woods, winter is a critical time for turf care, water management, and wildlife conservation, ensuring that the course is in excellent condition for the upcoming golf season.
Tree Planting and Wildlife Conservation
Greenkeeping at Belton Woods extends beyond turf care—it’s about nurturing the environment and supporting local wildlife. Each autumn and winter, they undertake extensive tree planting, using self-seeded saplings as much as possible and protecting them with wraps and guards to shield against pests. Larger, more established trees are supported with stakes and planted in targeted areas to enhance the course’s natural beauty and functionality.
Wildlife conservation is also a priority. In recent years, Belton Woods have adopted a strategy of leaving certain areas of the course uncut, reducing fuel consumption, maintenance, and manpower while creating havens for wildlife.
This approach has seen a notable increase in species like muntjac deer, buzzards, red kites, kingfishers, and more.
Looking ahead, Belton Woods plan to introduce wildflower areas along the driveway to attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, further enriching the biodiversity of the estate.
Water Management
Did you know that most of the water used to maintain Belton Woods’ courses comes from our on-site lagoon and the 17th Woods Lake? This system collects rainfall, which runs through ditches and is pumped back into the lagoon, making us largely self-sufficient when it comes to water usage. The lagoon water is then distributed across the course through a water tank system, significantly reducing our reliance on mains water.
The pipes, which are over 30 years old and only 900mm in diameter, do require six hours to water all 38 greens, and occasional leaks are inevitable due to their age. Despite these limitations, the team at Belton Woods continues to manage water usage effectively to ensure the course thrives year-round.
Minimising Environmental Impact
Belton Woods are deeply committed to sustainable practices and minimising their environmental footprint. Whenever chemicals are necessary, consultations with suppliers are carried out to select products that are safer for the environment.
A 12-month plan is carefully devised to ensure the chemicals are aligned with the commitment to eco-friendly practices. These steps ensure that Belton Woods not only meets but exceeds expectations when it comes to environmental responsibility.
Winter Turf Maintenance at a Glance
Aeration of fairways and greens prevents compaction and ensures efficient drainage. This process is essential to maintain healthy turf, especially during wet or frosty winters.
Belton Woods overseeds and apply fertilisers to encourage healthy grass growth and prepare the course for spring.
Winter conditions create an ideal environment for turf diseases like snow mould. The greenkeepers remain vigilant, addressing issues promptly to prevent widespread damage.
Regular clearing of fallen leaves and debris protects the turf and ensures uninterrupted playability.
What This Means for Golfers
Thanks to these behind-the-scenes efforts, golfers can enjoy smooth greens, firm fairways, and a course that’s both challenging and environmentally sustainable.
Winter may bring its challenges, but the dedicated greenkeeping team at Belton Woods ensures the course is always ready to welcome players, no matter the season.
A Course That Thrives in Harmony with Nature
Belton Woods’ approach to greenkeeping is about more than maintaining a golf course—it’s about creating a sustainable environment that benefits players, wildlife, and the planet.
From tree planting and water management to wildlife conservation and eco-friendly practices, they are proud to be stewards of this beautiful landscape.
The next time you step onto the fairways at Belton Woods, take a moment to appreciate the care and thought that goes into every aspect of maintaining this exceptional course.
And as we look forward to spring, know that every effort made during the winter months is setting the stage for another fantastic season of golf.