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 From the News Desk...Research takes early aim at pink snow moldby John ReitmanThree Washington state superintendents are teaming with Oregon State University to conduct research they hope will provide insight into more effective ways to prevent Microdochium patch, or pink snow mold in golf course turf. Jim Myers of The Plateau Club in Sammamish, Matt Schuldt of Seattle Golf Club and Josh Heersink of TPC Snoqualimie Ridge are working with Rob Golembiewski, Ph.D., of Oregon State to determine whether they can achieve control of pink snow mold by applying lower fungicide rates earlier in the year. Myers typically makes his fungicide application – 2 ounces per 1,000 square feet in dry fairways and 3 ounces per 1,000 square feet in shaded areas – by the second or third week of October. “Here in the Pacific Northwest, more money is spent on fungicides to control Microdochium patch than any other turf disease. For golf courses with limited budgets, timing and rate of the fungicide application are critical. We are hoping to define the rate and timing needed to optimize Microdochium patch control.”Reducing the amount of fungicide needed for preventive treatments would be a welcome relief during challenging economic times. Applying fungicide at a 2-ounce rate to cover 28 acres at The Plateau Club can cost Myers as much as $7,000 for a single application. “Here in the Pacific Northwest, more money is spent on fungicides to control Microdochium patch than any other turf disease,” Golembiewski said. “For golf courses with limited budgets, timing and rate of the fungicide application are critical. We are hoping to define the rate and timing needed to optimize Microdochium patch control.” Golembiewski, assistant professor in OSU’s horticulture department, developed the protocols for the study, which include applications of Banner Maxx at rates of 1, 2, 3 and 4 ounces per 1,000 square feet on Aug. 15, Sept. 15 and Oct. 1. All product for the study was donated by Syngenta. “Normally, when we go in around October 19, we’re already seeing a little bit of pink (snow mold),” Myers said. “By going in earlier, we’re thinking we can get a lower rate. And by keeping the innoculum down, we’re hoping that will improve turf conditions throughout the fall and winter.” Myers, Heersink and Schuldt will be monitoring turf conditions throughout the remainder of October and through November. “That’s when we get hit the worst,” Myers said. Soil temperatures were recorded at 2-inch and 4-inch depths on all application dates, and weather conditions for each day at all three locations is recorded in detail. Golembiewski as well as the superintendents participating in the study opted for Banner Maxx because of its systemic properties. “Systemic vs. contact is a huge difference,” Myers said. “Once you load the plant up with product you have a better chance at warding off any diseases.” Myers is hopeful that the multiple locations in the study will provide a better cross section of data. Seattle Golf Club is located almost directly on Puget Sound, while Sammamish is some 15 miles inland. TPC Snoqualmie Ridge is located another 20 or so miles eastward and in an upland area. “We’re working together not only to combat pink snow mold in the Pacific Northwest, but in the mountain states too,” Myers said. “There are guys there making early applications too. If we can help any superintendent out then it was worth it. “The main thing was to have a broad spectrum of results. It gives the study more credibility and gives more information to superintendents who will be reading about our results next year.” |
In other news... Study examines spring pre-stress fertility programs Research finds no correlation between biostimulant applications before spring core cultivation and recovery. Posted: 09/02/2010 Read more » Aquatrols, TurfNet present Water Week The series of five Webinars is aimed at helping superintendents manage water and soils more efficiently. Posted: 09/01/2010 Read more » News and people briefs Registration opens soon for Irrigation Show, Briggs & Stratton elects new chairman, FMC taps new director for professional solutions division Posted: 09/01/2010 Read more » GCSAA selects firm in search for new CEO Kansas City-based company will open search process for Mark Woodward's successor in October. Posted: 08/31/2010 Read more » Water foul! Research shows that droppings from non-migratory geese on turf can result in nitrogen runoff into adjacent bodies of water. Posted: 08/26/2010 Read more » Complete news index » |
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