Operating Greens Tender Conditioner (GTC) (Optional)

TCAL41495-UN-22JAN13

• The GTC is disengaged with the control knob (A) in the vertical position.
• To engage the GTC, turn the control knob 90° to the horizontal position.

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! The blades can be dulled if the Greens Tender or Fairway Tender Conditioner (GTC or FTC) is used immediately after applying top dressing. Wait for at least three days following top dressing before using GTC or FTC.

• The conditioner process involves shallow vertical cutting. The blades are adjusted to cut runners and lift horizontal leaf material. It is important that frequent and thorough observations be performed or stress to the plants can occur. Adjust as necessary.

NOTE: The initial setting must be the same as Height Of Cut to prevent damage to the turf.

For a deeper cut, set approximately 0.79 mm (.032 in.) below Height Of Cut.

1. Set the GTC blades the same height as the Height of Cut when conditioning greens for the first time.

2. While cutting with GTC, closely examine each green for any inconsistencies or appearance of over-aggressiveness. Decrease GTC penetration if necessary.

3. Check each green 1–2 operating hours after cutting. Look for any tendency toward a yellow or brown tint, which indicates over-stress.

4. If visible stress is observed, decrease GTC penetration to 0.39 mm (0.016 in.) for next cutting.

5. Continue cutting/conditioning at this setting for 3 to 5 days. Check frequently for stress.

6. If no stress is observed, increase GTC penetration by 0.25 mm (0.010 in.). Check for obvious over-aggressiveness. Observe for 2 to 3 days, watching for signs of stress.

7. Mow with GTC at this setting until stress becomes visible. Back off the GTC adjusted penetration by 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).

NOTE: Stress is a cumulative result of many factors such as irrigation, temperature, humidity, chemical application, disease, and thatch.

Conditioning aggressiveness requires adjustment and monitoring as these factors vary.

Conditioning frequency may also need to be reduced in some cases.