according to the University of
California Integrated Pest Man-
agement Program.
Turf damage that could be
mistaken for disease is often
caused by heat stress, compac-
tion, fertilizer, water, herbicides,
mowing and poor drainage. In
fact, the University of California
IPM reports irrigation problems
are the most common cause of
discolored lawns.
Diseases in turf typically
start small, with a few spots or
patches. If you've ruled out other
causes for turf decline and are
convinced that a disease is the
culprit, your next move should
be to get a second opinion.
"Get a professional diagnosis
if you suspect a disease is prob-
lematic," Kerns says. "Even if it is
not a disease, a local extension
specialist or turfgrass pathologist
will likely be able to help you
correct the problem."
At many universities, you can
receive lab result in as little as
24 hours that will pinpoint the
problem and provide positive
identification.
Product
performance
The most overlooked element
when selecting a fungicide,
according to Kerns, is a basic
understanding of the way it
works. Ignoring mode of action
can make an otherwise great
product unsuitable for you.
"Topical mode of action, how
4 2 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c o m A P R I L 2 014
chemical care
CHAZZ
HESSELEIN,
ALABAMA
COOPERATIVE
EXTENSION
SYSTEM,
BUGWOOD.ORG
Symptoms of rhizoctonia can come on quickly as rough, circular brown patches.
Spring dead spot is a difficult disease to manage. It can recur in the same spot each year.
HOWARD
F.
SCHWARTZ,
COLORADO
STATE
UNIVERSITY.
BUGWOOD.ORG
