The limited availability of chemicals decreases control options. So, the Vietnamese frequently verticut and topdress the greens and tees, which helps control persistent pests. The dry, moderate weather conditions in Song Be are not conducive to disease. During rainy season, however, leaf spot and dollar spot are the most prevalent. Most of the time, crew members will get a sprayer out to the green to rectify the problem, even for one or two spots.
Control is attempted well before the disease is established.
Ants and mole crickets are the biggest insect problem on Vietnamese courses, and ants are easily controlled. Mole crickets, however, have been giving them problems for many years. The pump and zone operation of sprinkler heads are manually controlled by the irrigation team, which consists of four staff members for every nine holes, who follow the superintendent's water program. These wells are scattered at strategic locations on the course. A pump at each bore hole supplies the needed pressure.