You Are Here: Management Updates 2002 Archive July 25, 2002

Date: July 25, 2002
Category: Nematodes
Subject: Nemtode Populations

Grass wilting and thinning? The nematode assay lab continues to receive soil samples from golf greens with very high populations of nematodes, particularly lance and stunt nematodes. In some cases more than 20,000 plant parasitic nematodes per 100 cc of soil. Lance nematodes are particularly pathogenic because they can move into the root tissues resulting in considerable damage. Wilting and thinning can be caused by fungi, drought, compaction or nematodes. Do not assume there is a nematode problem based on symptoms, and do not apply a nematicide without justification. We can usually perform a nematode assay in one to two days after receiving the soil.

For more information about submitting samples for nematode assay, visit our nematode diagnostics page.

- Submitted by: Dr. Rob Wick