Pitch Mark

The indentation or depression created on a putting green when a golf ball lands with sufficient force, particularly from approach shots or high-trajectory shots. Pitch marks should be immediately repaired by golfers to maintain green quality and ensure fair putting conditions for all players. Proper pitch mark repair involves using a repair tool to gently lift the compressed turf edges toward the center, then smoothing with a putter or foot. Unrepaired pitch marks can take weeks to heal naturally and significantly affect putting surfaces. Repairing pitch marks is fundamental golf etiquette and course care responsibility.