Microdochium patch control alternatives

Oregon State University scientists developed alternative control methods for Microdochium patch during cooler winter weather. (Photo: Alec Kowelewski)

Oregon State University scientists developed alternative control methods for Microdochium patch during cooler winter weather. (Photo: Alec Kowelewski)

Microdochium patch (Microdochium nivale) is a major turfgrass disease in cool, humid regions. Currently, traditional fungicides are the only known methods of control. We researched rolling, as well as the application of mineral oil, sulfur and potassium-phosphite as alternative fungicide options to control Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass (Poa annua) putting greens.

A field experiment was initiated in September 2013 and concluded in June 2015 on a putting green built using USGA-recommended particle size sand at Oregon State University, Corvallis, Ore. The experimental design was a two-by-four by two-by-two randomized complete split-plot design, with four replications. Factors included rolling, fertility, mineral oil and year.

The putting green was rolled five days a week compared to plots that were not rolled. Fertilization treatments applied per 1,000 square feet included 0.25 pound of Sulfur DF, 6.0 fluid ounces of PK Plus (potassium-phosphite), a combination of the Sulfur DF and PK Plus applied at these respective rates every other week, and no fertility. We also compared mineral oil (Civitas Turf Defense) applied every other week at a rate of 8.5 fluid ounces of product per 1,000 square feet to plots not receiving mineral oil.

In Corvallis, Civitas Turf Defense applied alone or in combination with PK Plus, Sulfur DF or PK Plus with Sulfur DF significantly suppressed Microdochium patch. Rolling also suppressed Microdochium patch, and a combination of Sulfur DF and PK Plus suppressed disease more than either product applied alone.

Treatments of Civitas Turf Defense were applied in combination with PK Plus, Sulfur DF or PK Plus, with Sulfur DF producing the best results. Rolled plots of the same treatments resulted in the most inferior quality due to abiotic damage. It’s important to note that Civitas Turf Defense has not been an effective Microdochium patch control in regions that have prolonged snow cover.

The authors would like to acknowledge the funding support for this research from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Western Canada Turfgrass Association, Northwest Turfgrass Association and the Western IPM Center.

Clint Mattox completed his Ph.D. under the direction of Alec Kowalewski, Ph.D. Contact Kowalewski at Alec.Kowalewski@oregonstate.edu or reference the research publication DOI: 10.1002/agj2.20191.

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