Plant disease is a fascinating phenomenon resulting from an interaction between the three components that make up the disease triangle: a host, a pathogen and the environment. The use of fungicides to prevent and control plant disease is widespread and among the top budgetary considerations for nearly all turfgrass managers. The dynamics of plant disease, however, are much less predictable and regular than the management strategies for other turfgrass pests such as weeds and insects.
Disease only occurs when all three components of the disease triangle interface with one another. Among the most frequent question asked is:
“What will 2020 be like for managing turf diseases?”
To help answer that question, we’ve compiled a list of articles to help you improve fungicide efficacy and understand fungicide resistance to ensure you have a successful year.
In Full swing
By early May, Des Moines G&CC typically sees between 3,500 and 4,000 rounds of golf played on its two Pete Dye-designed courses. This year, however, that number has been upped to more than 10,000 rounds of golf by mid-May—with no signs of slowing.
Here’s a look at how the Des Moines G&CC team keeps the course in tiptop form despite a busy start to the season.
From experiment to excellent
When a chemical company releases a new chemistry such as a fungicide to the market, it typically has gone through years of rigorous testing by both the chemical company and universities around the country. It’s in this research where many innovations were made that impact golf courses today and that will impact courses in the future.
Check out this feature to find out how chemical companies, university researchers and superintendents work hand in hand to improve fungicide efficacy.
Understanding fungicide resistance
Photo: Bruce Clarke, Ph.D.
Everyone engaged in establishing and maintaining healthy turf should be familiar with fungicide resistance.
In this article, Richard Latin, Ph.D., provides an overview of fungicide resistance, addressing the fundamental elements and practical consequences of fungicide resistance as it relates to turf disease control.
Analyzing the disease triangle of turf
Brian Aynardi, Ph.D., the Northeast research scientist for PBI-Gordon, takes a deep dive into the turf diseases that affected different parts of the season last year, as well as offers a look into the ways PBI-Gordon can help.
Header Image: Gary Kellner, Dimpled Rock
This page was produced by North Coast Media’s content marketing staff. However, the content on this page — and in the articles referenced — was created by Golfdom‘s editorial staff, in addition to outside research experts. NCM Content Marketing connects marketers to audiences and delivers industry trends, business tips and product information.
