Course Layout

Winter green

A temporary putting green, usually on the fairway, used to protect the main green during unfavorable conditions.
Golf Rules Simplified

Learn Golf Rules in 30mins

Our free online course covers everything you need to know before your next round.

Get Free Access

A winter green is a temporary putting surface, often located on a section of the fairway, that is used when the main putting greens are closed to prevent damage. This typically occurs during periods of frost, heavy rain, or dormant turf conditions. Winter greens are usually flatter, less maintained, and cut at a higher height than regular greens, resulting in slower and less consistent putting conditions. Their primary purpose is to preserve the health and playability of the permanent greens.

How Golfers Say It

"We’re on winter greens today."
"They’ve moved us to the temp greens."
"Putting on the fairway greens again."
"Course is using winter greens right now."

If "winter green" confused you, you are not alone. Learn golf basics before your first tee. No experience needed.

Learn Golf Terms Podcast

Listen and learn on the go

Origin

The concept of winter greens developed in regions with colder climates where frost and saturated soil could easily damage finely maintained putting greens. Golf courses introduced temporary greens to allow continued play while protecting the primary greens from wear and long-term turf damage.

Rules & Context

When winter greens are in use, they are treated as the official putting surfaces for that round. Local rules typically define their status, including whether flagsticks must remain in place or if specific marking areas are required. Scores made on winter greens may or may not be eligible for handicap posting, depending on governing body guidelines and course conditions. The quality and speed of play differ significantly from standard greens.

Listen to Funny Golf Songs

Humorous golf music perfect for your next round

Neil's Take

"Winter greens keep the course playable, but they’re not meant to replicate real putting conditions. It’s more about getting a round in than playing true golf."

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do golf courses use winter greens?

They are used to protect the main greens from damage caused by frost, excess moisture, or dormant turf conditions.

Are winter greens the same as regular greens?

No, winter greens are typically less maintained, slower, and less consistent than standard putting greens.

Do scores on winter greens count for handicap?

It depends on local rules and governing body guidelines, but often scores played on winter greens are not eligible for handicap posting.

Start Speaking Golf Like You Belong

Our courses that help beginners understand golf language fast

Before Your First Tee

Before Your First Tee

View Course
Golf Talk Fluency for Beginners

Golf Talk Fluency for Beginners

View Course

Browse Golf Terms

    Categories

                                                        Listen to Funny Golf Songs

                                                        Humorous golf music perfect for your next round

                                                        My Wishlist

                                                        View wishlist

                                                        Wishlist is empty.

                                                        Compare

                                                        Preview Cart

                                                        Your cart is empty.

                                                        Return to shop
                                                        close
                                                        }