You Are Here: Management Updates 1999 Archive June 3, 1999

Date: June 3, 1999
Category: Nematodes
Subject: Nematicide Applications

Plant parasitic nematodes in the Northeast are primarily a problem in putting greens as opposed to other types of turf. The reason for this is that putting greens have the ideal soil texture (70 to 95% sand), and they get watered frequently. If other areas of turf have these characteristics, and the grass is mowed closely, they may also develop problems with nematodes. There are a number of "alternative" products registered to control nematodes in turf but I have not seen significant suppression of nematodes with these products in my field studies. Nemacur, an organophosphate nematicide, is the most reliable material available. Nemacur is highly toxic and must be used with care. Do not apply Nemacur unless a nematode assay has demonstrated that there is a nematode problem. Nemacur can be applied twice per year at the rate of 2.3 lb/1,000 sq ft. If only one application is anticipated, apply from mid-June to July 1st. For two applications, make the first one between May and mid-June, and the second one about mid-July. In either case, nematode populations will be suppressed during the time of the year when other stresses are mounting. Nematode assays can be carried out at the University of Massachusetts. For further information, visit our nematode diagnostics page.

- Submitted by: Dr. Rob Wick