Can you believe the greens on the 18-hole championship course at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz have been around for over 50 years?
Beginning in late September 2025, all 18 greens on the championship course, along with the putting green, will undergo complete reconstruction.
The project has been meticulously developed over several years. Over the past three years, multiple test greens have been established to determine the optimal mixture of quartz sand and identify the most suitable grass varieties.
The resort has announced plans to restore all greens by utilizing a blend of Agrostis stolonifera, commonly known as creeping bentgrass, which has been selected for its resilience to environmental stresses and diseases.
In European and Swiss climates characterized by cool seasons, the predominant grass type used for greens is creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera/A. palustris) or various blends of bentgrass.
In contrast, perennial ryegrass and several species of fescue are typically employed for fairways, tees, and rough areas.
The innovative grass varieties being implemented will significantly reduce the need for water, fungicides, and fertilizers, making them easier to maintain compared to earlier options.
This advancement will ensure completely uniform greens, allowing for more sustainable maintenance practices.
As a result, the quality of the golfing experience for guests will be enhanced, while also contributing to broader sustainability efforts within the sport.
Challenges with creeping bentgrass
While creeping bentgrass has many outstanding qualities, it’s essential to acknowledge that it also presents a few challenges that may concern some of us:
- Requires frequent mowing, irrigation, and topdressing.
- Thatch buildup can lead to disease, insect infestations, and poor water infiltration if not adequately controlled.
- Susceptible to fungal diseases like dollar spot, brown patch, and snow mold.
- Also prone to insect pressure (cutworms, annual bluegrass weevil).
- Its aggressive stolons can spread into flower beds, sidewalks, and other turf areas.
Bottom line: Creeping bentgrass is excellent for golf courses and specialized turf uses where intensive maintenance is possible.
The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is poised to set new benchmarks in golf, positioning itself as a leader and pioneer in the region.
Play during the renovation phase
- From September 22, 2025: Holes 1 to 11 and hole 18 will remain open, and tee times can be booked as usual.
- End of October 2025 to end of April 2026: Golf course and driving range remain closed.
- From the beginning of May 2026: Play on temporary greens.
- Late July to early August 2026: Expected reopening of the golf course with the new greens.