You Are Here: Management Updates 2002 Archive February 22, 2002

Date: February 22, 2002
Category: Nematodes
Subject: Testing for Nematodes

Golf greens that had root-knot nematodes confirmed last year should be sampled this year as soon as the ground thaws. It is not possible for us to determine the extent of root-knot infestation during the growing season because the juveniles are in the roots, and for the most part, are not extractable. Early spring sampling generally results in the highest number of juveniles, and this is a measure of potential damage that may occur. Try to take the samples from the area of the green that appeared to be affected. Take 15 to 20 subsamples from the area of concern and bulk them as one. Use a 1 inch diameter soil probe to a depth of 4 inches. Remove the turf /thatch from the plug; you can use it to patch the hole. For further instructions about submitting a sample for diagnosis, visit our nematode diagnostics page.

- Submitted by: Dr. Rob Wick