Question 1

Do trees get damaged when they are hit by golf balls/clubs?

AGC Greens · Accepted Answer

Young trees and saplings will damage easily if struck by a ball as the bark is much thinner. If you look at the bark you will often see it is broken/damaged on the side facing the direction of play and this will still show on older mature trees. The side facing the green by comparison is without damage. Sometimes this will stunt the growth of the tree or cause it to become diseased and require removal.Younger trees are also easily damaged if hit by a club during a swing, which is why young saplings are often staked so that relief may be obtained and the risk to the tree reduced.

Question 2

Do trees get damaged when they are hit by golf balls/clubs?

AGC Greens · Accepted Answer

Young trees and saplings will damage easily if struck by a ball as the bark is much thinner. If you look at the bark you will often see it is broken/damaged on the side facing the direction of play and this will still show on older mature trees. The side facing the green by comparison is without damage. Sometimes this will stunt the growth of the tree or cause it to become diseased and require removal.Younger trees are also easily damaged if hit by a club during a swing, which is why young saplings are often staked so that relief may be obtained and the risk to the tree reduced.