September Weather Summary

 Temperature:

1. Hottest Week: The hottest week was from September 2nd to 8th with an average high temperature of approximately 84.19°F. This period would be particularly stressful for bentgrass, as it is well above the optimal growth temperature range of 60-75°F.
2. Coolest Temperatures: The coolest high temperature was 63.8°F on September 27th. This would be more within the comfort range for bentgrass, reducing physiological stress on the plant.
3. Mean Temperature: The overall mean temperature for the month was 65.9°F, which is within the optimal range, but the highs were often outside of this, creating intermittent stress periods.

Rainfall:

1. Total Rainfall: The total rainfall for September was 1.31 inches, spread over 9 days.
2. Maximum Rainfall: The maximum amount of rain received in a single day was 0.27 inches on September 17th.
3. Days of Rain: There were 9 days with rainfall greater than 0.01 inches and 6 days with rainfall greater than 0.1 inches.

Bentgrass Water Requirements:

Bentgrass typically requires about 1 to 1.25 inches of water per week under moderate conditions. Given that the total rainfall for September was 1.31 inches, this is significantly below what bentgrass would generally require. In a hot week like that from September 2nd to 8th, water requirements could be even higher due to increased evapotranspiration.

Implications for Bentgrass:

1. Stressful Periods: The hottest week (Sept 2-8) and any other days with high temperatures would be periods of high stress, requiring special attention to irrigation, potential disease outbreaks, and possible adjustment of mowing practices.
2. Less Stressful Periods: Days like September 27th, with a high of 63.8°F, would be ideal for bentgrass, offering an opportunity for recovery and potentially for carrying out more disruptive maintenance activities like aeration.
3. Water Deficit: Given the low rainfall in September compared to the bentgrass water needs, supplemental irrigation would almost certainly be necessary. Depending on soil type and other conditions, more frequent watering may be needed, especially during the hottest week.
4. Disease and Pest Management: Hot and stressful periods often coincide with outbreaks of diseases like brown patch or dollar spot and increased insect activity, requiring vigilant monitoring and possible chemical treatment.