Fixing Marks On The Green

By Michael Joseph

There is nothing more inconsiderate than not fixing your pitch mark on the green. Everybody, including you, suffers from bumpy greens if you don't fix your ball marks. Properly fixed ball marks normally take 1 to 2 days to completely heal. Ball marks left unrepaired take 2 to 3 weeks to heal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Find the ball mark on the green and get your divot repair tool or a golf tee. If you cannot find your ball mark or you did not make a ball mark, find another ball mark to fix. There are always some unfixed marks around.

Step 2

Push the divot repair tool into the ground at a 45-degree angle directly outside the pitch mark.

Step 3

Pull the divot repair tool toward the center of the mark. Many golfers push the tool down and away from the center, causing the center to rise to the level surface. This will make the mark smooth, but it actually separates the grass from its root system. The grass will die, and the green will be left with a brown spot that lasts for weeks.

Step 4

Repeat steps 2 and 3 on all angles of the pitch mark until you have what looks like a small mound.

Step 5

Tap the mound with the bottom of your putter so it is level with the putting surface.

Tips & Warnings

Fix 2 or 3 ball marks per green, if possible. If you are playing with someone who is not repairing his ball marks, do it for him and let him see you. By the next hole, he will feel guilty and begin fixing his own marks. You are allowed to fix a ball mark not belonging to you without penalty if it is in your putting line.

Fix 2 or 3 ball marks per green, if possible.

If you are playing with someone who is not repairing his ball marks, do it for him and let him see you. By the next hole, he will feel guilty and begin fixing his own marks.

You are allowed to fix a ball mark not belonging to you without penalty if it is in your putting line.

About The Author

Michael Joseph is a golf industry professional in New Jersey. He has worked as a golf professional, instructor, and clubmaker. Joseph's education includes a degree in golf operations management and a certification in club-fitting from The Golf Academy of America (formally the San Diego Golf Academy). Joseph shares his golf experience and knowledge with others by writing articles for Demand Media Studios and Golflink.com.

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