You Are Here: Management Updates 1998 Archive August 19, 1998

Date: August 19, 1998
Category: Diseases
Subject: Drought Stress, Anthracnose, Fusarium Patch

Drought conditions continue to be the focus of most turf managers. The good news is that many fungal diseases are inactive because of the low moisture. Anthracnose remains active on many golf courses where stress conditions (compaction, low mowing heights, poor air circulation) inhibit turf growth. August aeration should help relieve some of the stress. Rainfall and cooler temperatures should also improve turf growth.

WARNING! For golf courses in northern areas and higher elevations, the cool front that arrived is similar to what happened last August, so be on the lookout for small, greasy, salmon-colored spots of Fusarium patch (pink snow mold), especially in shady areas or areas of poor air movement. Spot treatment of fungicides is probably sufficient. Avoid tracking the spores to other areas with mowers, carts etc.

- Submitted by: Dr. Gail Schumann