A New Hermitage Chapter

This week, we completed our first application for spring dead spot. The second application is scheduled in a couple of weeks. These treatments are done in the fall when soil temperatures begin to cool, as this is when the fungus becomes most active. Targeting it during this period helps maximize the effectiveness of the control measures.

Despite the recent lack of rain and low humidity, the new irrigation system on Sabot and the fully operational 2-wire system on the Manakin course have been instrumental in maintaining excellent course conditions. These upgrades have also made watering in our spring dead spot application much more efficient and effective.

One week after aerifying the Sabot greens with the 3/8" quarter tines, they’re healing up well thanks to this stretch of great August weather. With the Men's Member/Member coming up next week, they should be rolling nicely.

With the recent drop in nighttime temperatures, the Bermudagrass has noticeably slowed its growth.
As a result, we've shifted our focus to fine-tuning key details across the course. This includes sharpening bunker edges, redefining bed lines, and refreshing pine straw in landscape beds where needed. These efforts not only improve playability but also enhance the overall aesthetic of the property as we transition into the cooler months.

As fall seems to have arrived a bit earlier this year, we've started bush hogging our cool-season native areas and out-of-play zones. One of Chris's last requests before his departure was to tidy up the area left of #3 Sabot and right of #16—where he’s lost more than a few golf balls!

As seasons change here at Hermitage Country Club, so do the chapters in our story. While we are sad to see Chris go, we are incredibly grateful for the impact he has made during his time with us. Chris Harriman, is moving on to his next great adventure!

Chris has been more than a leader—he has been a mentor, a visionary, friend, and the foundation of the incredible culture we enjoy every day. Through his dedication, hard work, and passion for excellence, Chris helped shape Hermitage into not just a premier golf experience, but a workplace and community that people are proud to be part of.

Chris’s leadership style wasn’t just about growing great turf—it was about growing great people. His support for our team and his commitment to both the membership and staff have left a lasting legacy that we are proud to carry forward.

As Chris steps into this exciting new chapter with his family, we wish them all the happiness and success in the world. The entire Hermitage family thanks you, Chris, for everything you’ve done for this club and for each of us.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to announce that Ben Longest and Grant Lowery will be taking over the blog and continuing the strong culture and standards Chris helped build. Our team remains committed to maintaining and elevating the course and property that our members cherish, while keeping you informed every step of the way.

This is not just a goodbye—it’s a celebration of a journey well-traveled and a future full of promise. Here’s to new beginnings, both for the Harriman family and for Hermitage Country Club.

With gratitude,

The Agronomy Team

Hermitage Country Club