Why Every Golfer Should Repair Pitch Marks
Pitch marks, or ball marks, are indentations left on the green when a ball lands from height. Left unrepaired, they can cause long-term damage to the putting surface, affecting roll, consistency, and the overall condition of the course. Winter is a particularly critical time for pitch mark repair, as colder weather slows grass recovery.
How to Properly Repair a Pitch Mark
Always carry a divot repair tool, tee, or small fork to fix ball marks.
Insert the tool around the edges of the mark and gently push the surrounding turf inward toward the centre.
This damages the roots and can cause long-term scarring.
After repairing the mark, tap down the area with your putter to restore a smooth putting surface.
The Impact of Pitch Mark Repair
• Unrepaired marks can take weeks to heal, while a properly repaired mark recovers in just 24 hours.
• Damaged greens affect ball roll, making putting more difficult for all golfers.
• Keeping greens in good condition benefits everyone, from casual golfers to tournament players.
Let’s Keep the Greens Perfect for Everyone!
Next time you're on the course, take a moment to fix your pitch marks - and if you see an unattended mark, fix that too. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference in preserving the quality of our courses.