Greens Covers

Breathable vs Non-breathable Covers

There are two major categories of greens covers to choose from: Non-breathable solid plastic covers or breathable woven covers.  Which is best?  That depends on your location, grass type and application.

Non-Breathable Solid Plastic Covers

Black or clear? Some superintendents prefer the extra heat that a black cover attracts during the day; others prefer the sunlight that can pass through a clear cover. Best ones are typically scrim reinforced to provide tensile strength.

     

Advantages

  •  Temperature under the cover will actually increase by several degrees overnight in addition to reducing desiccation
  • Provides the most protection for warm season grasses against low temperature kill
  • Lightweight
  • Typically slightly lower in cost than fabric covers

  Disadvantages

  • Cannot irrigate once the cover is in place
  • Can be difficult to put out during heavy winds
  • Must be removed every three or four days
  • More likely to develop disease after prolonged use

Breathable Fabric Covers

Type: Woven

  • These materials have the fibers placed at 90 degree angles
  • Has the appearance of a “rice” bag
  • Typically made from polypropylene
  • Does not accumulate as much moisture or debris as the non-woven
  • Tends to pull apart if the material is cut

Type: Non Woven

  • Thicker fabrics that look like felt and are needle punched
  • Thinner materials are typically some type of heat set process
  • Typically made from either polypropylene or polyester
  • The polyester materials have better UV resistance, but even they are subject to deterioration after a few years

Advantages 

  • Can remain in place for a long period of time
  • Can irrigate while the cover is in place
  • Prevents kill by reducing desiccation
  • Easier to handle in heavy winds

Disadvantages

  • The temperature is not actually increased under the cover
  • Non-wovens tend to pick up moisture and debris such as leaves, twigs, etc.
  • Non-wovens tend to rot if they are stored with moisture