pdf/PA Turfgrass Winter 2015.pdf

Winter 2015 • Vol. 4/No. 1

Educational Program for theNortheastern PA

Turfgrass Conference, January 30

Understanding and Controlling

Fairy Ring

4 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Winter 2015

10

Vol. 4 / No. 1 • Winter 2015

8 UpcomingEventEducational Program for the Northeastern PA Turfgrass Conference, January 30

9 UpcomingEventsSave These Dates — Regional Turf Conferences

10 CoverStoryUnderstanding and Controlling Fairy Ring

18 BetweentheLinesUpdates from KAFMO

20 ResearchSummariesUpdates on Research by Penn State’s Turf Team

6 President’sUpdate

21PTCMembershipApplication

21 PennStateNews

22 PennStateTurfTeam

22 CalendarofEvents

22 AdvertiserIndex

Features Departments

President’s Update


reach you today filled with mixed sentiments. With the close of another year upon us, now is an oppor- tune time to reflect upon 2014 and look ahead to

2015. Primarily, I abound with optimism. However, I also feel a hint of sorrow, for this will be my final update as president of the PTC. As is the case with any fine organization, the PTC board of directors evolves regularly. In addition, we have a new management partner, with which the PTC will forge new paths and undoubtedly guide the state’s turfgrass industry forward.

This past year has been overwhelmingly successful thanks to the hard work of the Penn State faculty, the efforts of my fellow board members and, most importantly, the dedication that you — the PTC members — have exhibited to your trade and in participation at PTC events. The PTC goes to great lengths to sponsor conferences that help educate you and maintain your certifications. This past year, you attended PTC-sponsored conferences in greater numbers than we have experienced in over a decade. Subsequently, research at Penn State is busier than ever, working to address current trends in the turfgrass industry and formu- lating new strategies. In return, I thank you for your support. The turfgrass industry in Pennsylvania is stronger than ever!

The PTC also continues to be strong organizationally. New board members have joined the fold, representing many facets of the turf industry — from lawn care to sports turf to golf course turf, and from the turf service industry to media relations. Andrew Dooley, PTC vice president and superintendent at Berkshire Country Club, was elected to the presidency and will take office on New Year’s Day 2015. Intelligent and hard working, Mr. Dooley will undoubtedly utilize his talents to continue the PTC’s momentum.

To bolster these efforts, the board recently hired a new managerial firm with which to partner, NRKline LLC. Furthermore, former PTC president and 22-year PTC board

veteran, Tom Bettle, is assisting NRKline with day-to-day management. This increase in oversight will be beneficial as the PTC works hard to expand our member services for the future.

Together, with a solid structure in place, the PTC and I will strive to continue serving you, and the best interests of turfgrass managers throughout Pennsylvania, to the best of our abilities. Please do not hesitate to contact me (412-447-4434 or [email protected]) or the PTC office (814-237-0767 or [email protected]) if the PTC can assist you in any way. Please take the time to share this publication with your friends and colleagues, and thank you for your continued support of the PTC.

Finally, as my term as president dwindles to completion in the twilight of 2014, and as I pass the baton to Mr. Dooley (to whom I am proud to yield), I wish to share with you a few words. I thank everyone who has trusted me, assisted me, taught me and listened to me throughout the term of my presidency. Two years pass in a flash. As does a season, as does a lifetime. Accept new challenges, and fear not mis- takes. Boredom is beholden to those who covet simplicity. Fight with vigor, and relief will come.

It has been my honor to have served the PTC and you. Thank you for taking the time to read this update. On the precipice of a new year and a new era for the PTC, I leave you with the combination of two quotes from the great 20th century poet, Rainer Maria Rilke…

“ The purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things. And now we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been.”

Respectfully,Jason M. Hurwitz2013–2014 PTC President

I

Happy Winter to All!

7Winter 2015 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass

PennsylvaniaTurfgrassCouncilP.O.Box99Boalsburg,PA16827-0550Phone:(814)237-0099Fax:(814)414-3303

Publisher:Leading Edge Communications, LLC206 Bridge St. • Franklin, TN 37064Phone: (615) 790-3718Fax: (615) 794-4524info@leadingedge

communications.com

Pennsylvania TurfgrassEditorJohn Kaminski, Ph.D.Penn State • [email protected]

Pennsylvania TurfgrassAssociateEditorMaria LandschootPenn State • [email protected]

PresidentJason HurwitzFox Chapel Golf Club • Pittsburgh, PA(412) 447-4434

VicePresidentAndrew DooleyBerkshire Country Club • Reading, PA(610) 451-3229

Secretary-TreasurerPete RamseyMessiah College • Grantham, PA

PastPresidentMatt ShafferMerion Golf Club • Ardmore, PA(610) 642-4515

Directors

Tom BettleJoseph Valentine Turfgrass

Research Facility

Bill BrownTurf Republic

Bob CapranicaE.H. Griffith

Dan DouglasReading Fightin Phils

Dave ForesmanThe Brickman Group

Shawn KisterLongwood Gardens

Dr. Peter LandschootPenn State University

Rick PagettThe Penn State Golf Courses

Chase RoganGCSAA — Mid-Atlantic Regional Representative


Upcoming Event

Northeastern PA Turfgrass Conference

and Tradeshow,Thursday, January 29, 2015

Toregisterorformoreinformation,goto:http://plantscience.psu.edu/nets

The Woodlands Inn and ResortWilkes-Barre, PA

MORNING GOLF COURSE SESSIONSessionChair: Mr. Charlie Lincicome, Bucknell University

9:00 a.m.A New Presentationon Pesticide DriftMr. Bill Riden, Pesticide Education Specialist Penn State

9:30 a.m.Why Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens Turn to Patches (and Is That a Bad Thing?) Dr. David Huff, Professor of Turfgrass Breeding and Genetics, Penn State

10:00 a.m. BreakVisitwithexhibitors.

10:30 a.m. Frankenbugs: How to Avoid Making Resistant Annual Bluegrass Weevils at Your CourseDr. Ben McGraw, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science, Penn State

11:00 a.m. USGA Green Section Year in ReviewMr. Elliot Dowling, USGA Agronomist, Mid-Atlantic Region

11:30 a.m. Lunch

Pesticide Credits: 3 in Cat. 7, 3 in Cat. 18, 3 in Cat. 23, 1 in Core

MORNING GENERAL SESSIONSessionChair: Ms. Dianne Petrunak, Penn State

9:00 a.m.Alternatives to Managing White Grubs with ChemicalsDr. Ben McGraw, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science, Penn State

9:30 a.m.Preemergence and Post-emergence Vegetation Control Program OptionsMr. Jeff Borger, Senior Instructor in Turfgrass, Penn State

10:00 a.m. BreakVisitwithexhibitors.

10:30 a.m. A New Presentation on Selecting the Proper Nozzlesfor Pesticide ApplicationsMr. Bill Riden, Pesticide Education Specialist, Penn State

11:00 a.m. Genetically Engineered Turfgrass: Is It in Your Future?Dr. David Huff, Professor of Turfgrass Breeding and Genetics, Penn State

11:30 a.m. Lunch

Pesticide Credits: 3 in Cat. 7, 3 in Cat. 18, 3 in Cat. 23, 1 in Core

AFTERNOON SESSION ISessionChair: Dr. Andrew McNitt, Penn State

1:00 p.m.Nitrogen Fertilizer Selection and Application Timings/RatesDr. Max Schlossberg, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Nutrition/Soil Fertility, Penn State

2:00 p.m. BreakVisitwithexhibitors.

2:15 p.m. Management of Some Armored Scale Insects on Trees and ShrubsMr. Greg Hoover, Ornamental Entomologist, Penn State

2:45 p.m.PDA UpdateMr. Chris Santore, Agronomic Products Inspector, PA Department of Agriculture

Pesticide Credits: 1 in Cat. 6, 2 in Cat. 7, 3 in Cat. 18, 3 in Cat. 23, 1 in Core

AFTERNOON SESSION IISessionChair: Mr. Tom Serensits, Penn State

1:00 p.m.Herbicides in the Landscape:the Good, the Bad and the UglyMr. Scott Guiser, Emeritus Extension Horticulture Educator

2:00 p.m. BreakVisitwithexhibitors.

2:15 p.m. Plant, Animal, People and Pesticide Safety Issues — 2014Mr. Jeff Borger, Senior Instructor in Turfgrass, Penn State

2:45 p.m.Clearwing Borers on Trees and Shrubs: Their Diagnosis and Effective Management StrategiesMr. Greg Hoover, Ornamental Entomologist, Penn State

Pesticide Credits: 3 in Cat. 6, 1 in Cat. 7, 3 in Cat. 18, 3 in Cat. 23, 1 in Core

lease join us this year at the Western PA Turfgrass and Ornamental Conference and Tradeshow, which will take place February

10–12, 2015, at the Four Points Sheraton in Mars, PA. In addition to a variety of speakers and subject matter, the educational sessions will offer PDA pesticide license credits in the following categories: Core and Categories 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 18 and 23. GCSAA credits will also be available.

Also this year, we will have a special workshop titled “Turfgrass Disease Biology, Microscopy and Integrated Turfgrass Disease Management Practices” presented by The Pennsylvania State University Dept. of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology with Dr. Wakar Uddin, Professor of Plant Pathology; Mr. Gary V. Nolan, Ph.D. Student, Plant Pathology; and Mr. Brian Aynardi, Ph.D. Student, Plant Pathology. This workshop will be given for a fee that is yet to be determined. 7

Eastern Pennsylvania Turfgrass, Ornamental and Landscape Conference will be held on January 6 and 7, 2015, at the Radisson

Hotel of the Valley Forge Casino Resort (King of Prussia, PA). The conference and tradeshow returns to this popular venue, which was last held here in 2010. Some of the speakers scheduled to appear include:• Dr. Ben McGraw, our new Penn State faculty member• Dr. Karl Danneberger, Ohio State University• Dr. Nathan Walker, Oklahoma State University and native

of Bucks County, PA• Dr. Beth Guertal, Auburn University• Dr. Brandon Horvath, University of Tennessee• Howard Jaekle, Syngenta, with his insightful presentation on

the “Future of Golf”• Business topics, to be covered in a Lawn and Landscape Session• Lunch, Tradeshow, Silent Auction and Hospitality Reception• PA, NJ, DE and MD pesticide credits, and also GCSAA CEUs• and much more! 7


Upcoming Events

The P

Eastern PA Turf Conference Returns to Valley Forge,

January 6–7, 2015

Western PA Turfgrass and Ornamental Conference,

February 10–12, 2015


Cover Story

earliest memories from childhood are of working with

my father on his mushroom farm in Avondale, Pennsylvania. We grew the “white button” (Agaricus bisporus) mushroom, and today Pennsylvania remains the leading producer of edible

mushrooms in the U.S. I was always fascinated with the biology of those fungi, and years later I am still inves- tigating mushrooms in the form of the fairy ring complex in turf.

Fairy ring symptoms are the most commonly seen disease disorders of turfgrasses worldwide. Fairy ring is not

caused by dancing fairies or woodland elves, but it is attributed to over 60 species of basidiomycete (or mushroom) fungi. Fairy ring occurs on golf course turf, athletic fields and pitches, and lawns and landscapes. Fairy ring can occur on all turfgrass species, all climates, all times of the year and under

Understanding and Controlling

Fairy RingBy Mike Fidanza, Ph.D., Professor of Plant and Soil Sciences, Penn State University – Berks Campus

My


any and all turf management programs. These basidiomycetes are wood-decaying fungi, typically seeking the lignin of tree roots, but lignin and organic matter found in turfgrass thatch and within the turf rootzone are also on their menu.

Fairy ring is a curious oddity of

nature, but to the turf practitioner, it can be a persistent scourge of turf loss and a disruption of turf quality and function. Seeing mushrooms during a walk in the forest is a thing of beauty, but seeing mushrooms and dead, necrotic turf on your morning turf inspection is not.

Photo 2. Penn State turf alum Tom Malehorn standing inside type I fairy ring.

Photo 1. Classic example of necrotic turf loss (Type I) with appearance of a basidiocarp (mushroom).

Photo 3. Great example of Type I fairy ring around the perimeter of a tree, caused by lignin-seeking fungus colonizing tree roots (photo by Alan Fitzgerald).

Photo 4. Severe Type I fairy ring on a fairway.

4.

3.

1.

2.


Fairy ring biologyFairy ring symptoms are classified as Type I, II and III, based on the visual appearance of the affected turf. These symptoms can occur in circles, rings or arcs because the fungus grows radially from its point of origin in the thatch or soil. Type I is necrotic, dead turf. Type II is dark green, stimulated and lush- growing turf. Type III is the appearance of basidiocarps or mushrooms. These three symptoms can occur alone, in pairs or all three at the same spot (see Photos 1–8).

The fairy ring fungus does not directly infect turfgrass plants and cause leaf lesions and blights like other pathogens such as Rhizoctonia sp. As the fairy ring fungus colonizes turfgrass thatch and rootzone areas, its mycelium and other substances coat sand and soil particles, which can cause severe hydrophobicity or soil water repellency. Thus, turf loss is due partially to wilt simply because the roots can’t access soil moisture. Also, as the fungus breaks down organic matter, ammonium can accumulate to toxic levels, which shut down root function.

Photo 5. Type II fairy ring on a baseball field.

Photo 6. Type III (mushrooms) fairy ring along perimeter of a necrotic zone (Type I) in a lawn.5.

6.

Active Ingredient(1)

Trade Name and Formulation(1)

Application Rate(oz. or fl. oz./1,000 sq. ft.)(2)

Interval(days)(2) Product Label Remarks(2)

Azoxystrobin Heritage 50WG 0.4 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Apply only in 4 gals. water per 1,000 ft2. Add the recommended rate of a wetting agent to the final spray. Severely damaged or thin turf may require reseeding. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. Reapplication after 28 days may be required in some cases.

Azoxystrobin Heritage TL 0.8ME

2 28 Same as listed for Heritage 50WG.

Azoxystrobin Heritage 0.31G 2 to 4 14 to 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Irrigate with at least 0.5" water within 24 hours after application if rainfall is not expected. Severely damaged or thin turf may require reseeding. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. Reapplication after 14 to 28 days may be required in some cases.

Azoxystrobin + Difenoconazole

Briskway 2.72 0.5 to 0.725 14 to 28 For preventive control of fairy ring, apply early in spring prior to the development of symptoms. Apply in 2 to 4 gallons of water per 1,000 ft2. Irrigate into the thatch prior to the spray drying. Repeat the application within 14 to 28 days after the first application.

Azoxystrobin + Propiconazole

Headway 1.39EC 1.5 to 3 14 to 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Apply in 2 to 4 gals. of water per 1,000 ft2. Add the recommended rate of a wetting agent to the final spray. Severely damaged or thin turf may require reseeding. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. If area is hydrophobic, use wetting agents, and irrigate prior to application(s) of Headway. Reapplication after 28 days may be required in some cases.

Azoxystrobin + Propiconazole

Headway 1.06G 2 to 2.53 to 5.4

1428

Same as listed for Heritage 50WG.

Fluoxastrobin Disarm 480SC 0.28 to 0.36 21 to 28 As soon as fairy ring symptoms develop, apply in 4 gals. water per 1,000 ft2, or irrigate after application with 1/4" water. A wetting agent may facilitate penetration.

Fluoxastrobin +Chlorothalonil

Disarm C 4.25SC 4.5 to 5.9 21 to 28 Same as listed for Disarm 480SC.

Flutolanil Prostar 70WG (or Prostar 70WP)

2.24.5

21 to 2830

Preventive (2.2 oz.): applying in 10 to 50 gals. of water per 1,000 ft2 may suppress development of fairy ring caused by various basidiomycete pathogens. A second application may be made at a 21- to 28-day interval using the same dosage rate.Curative (4.5 oz.): applying in 10 to 50 gals. of water per 1,000 ft2 may suppress development of fairy ring caused by various basidiomycete pathogens. Application should be made to the affected area at the first sign of ring development (greening, death of turf, mushrooms). Symptom suppression may be temporary, and symptoms may recover. In those cases, a second application at 4.5 oz. per 1,000 ft2 is suggested, not less than 30 days after the first application. Aerification prior to subsurface applications has been beneficial in some cases. Use of a nonionic surfactant in combination with Prostar 70WG is recommended. Treated areas should be irrigated prior to and after application with sufficient water to maintain growth of turf. Disease control is improved if turf is maintained at optimum fertility levels after symptom development. Turf that has been damaged extensively by fairy ring development may have to be reseeded. Do not treat more than 10,000 ft2 per acre of turf area.

Fluxapyroxad +Pyraclostrobin

Lexicon 4.17SC 0.47 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. Use 2 to 4 gals. of spray volume per 1,000 ft2 and an appropriate soil wetting agent at time of application. Reapplication after 28 days may be required. Provide a short irrigation cycle directly following treatment to move fungicide through thatch.

Metconazole Tourney 50WDG 0.37 21 Apply as soon as possible after first symptoms appear. Apply in a volume of 4 gals. per 1,000 ft2. For optimal control, reapply after 21 days. Symptoms may take several weeks to disappear following application.

Polyoxin-D Affirm 11.3WG 1 7 Make two to three applications on a 7-day interval schedule. Use a penetrating wetting agent. Immediately following application, water-in the treatment with sufficient irrigation (1/8" to 1/4") to wet the active rootzone.

(1) Refer to the product label for information on the FRAC codes and manufacturer of the product.(2) Refer to the product label for specific information and instructions for safe and effective use. This list may not be inclusive of all

commercially available products. For example, Zerotol and Consan contain fairy ring statements on their product labels.


continued • Cover Story

Table 1. List of fungicide products currently labeled for the treatment of fairy ring symptoms.

Active Ingredient(1)

Trade Name and

Formulation(1)

Application Rate(oz. or fl. oz./1,000 sq. ft.)(2)

Interval(days)(2) Product Label Remarks(2)

Pyraclostrobin Insignia 20WG 0.9 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. Use 4 gals. of spray volume and an appropriate soil wetting agent at time of application. Reapplication after 28 days may be required.

Pyraclostrobin +Boscalid

Honor 28WG 1.1 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Fairy ring symptoms may take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. Use 2 to 4 gals. per 1,000 ft2 spray volume and an appropriate soil wetting agent at time of application. Reapplication after 28 days may be required. Provide a short irrigation cycle directly following treatment to move fungicide through thatch.

Pyraclostrobin +Triticonazole

Pillar 0.76G 48 (3 lbs.) 14 to 28 Apply as soon as possible after fairy ring symptoms develop. Fairy ring symptoms can take 2 to 3 weeks to disappear following application. For optimum results, apply a soil wetting agent to the intended treatment area prior to application.

Tebuconazole Torque 3.6SC 0.6 28 2ee Label – Preventive: Apply before fairy ring symptoms appear in spring, starting when 5-day average soil temperatures at 2 inches reach 55ºF to 60ºF. Use sufficient water volume (66 to 132 GPA). For best results, water the application into the active rootzone within 4 hours. Make a second application when 5-day average soil temperatures reach 65ºF to 70ºF. Do not exceed a 28-day interval between applications. Torque may also be tank-mixed or rotated with Affirm, as allowed on the label. Do not apply to overseeded bermudagrass during spring transition. Complete greenup should occur before treatment to avoid potential growth reduction.2ee Label – Curative: Apply to areas where fairy ring symptoms are present. Use sufficient water volume (66 to 132 GPA). For best results, water the application into the active root zone within 4 hours. Use a wetting agent as required for the penetration of active hydrophobic soil conditions. User may make a second application in the same manner, utilizing a 28-day interval. Torque may also be tank-mixed or rotated with Affirm, as allowed on the label.

Thiophanate-methyl + Flutolanil

SysStar 80WDG

36.12

21 to 28 Preventative: Applying at 3.0 oz./1,000 ft2 in 3 to 5 gals. of water may suppress the development of fairy ring caused by various basidiomycete pathogens. A second application may be made at a 21- to 28-day interval using the same dosage rate.Curative: Applying at 6.12 oz./1,000 ft2 in 10 to 50 gals. of water may suppress the development of fairy ring. Application should be made as a spot treatment to the affected area at the first sign of ring development (greening, death of turf, mushrooms). Symptom suppression may be temporary, and symptoms may reoccur. Aerification prior to subsurface applications has been beneficial in some cases. Use of a nonionic surfactant in combination with SysStar WDG is recommended. Treated areas should be irrigated prior to and after application with sufficient water to maintain growth of turf. Do not treat more than 10,000 ft2 per acre of turf area.

Triadimefon Bayleton FLO 4.15SC

1 to 1.9 14 to 21 Preventive Rate: Apply recommended rate in 2 to 4 gals. of water in the spring prior to appearance of fairy ring symptoms. Before the spray dries, irrigate to wash the fungicide into the thatch/soil where the fungus is active. Repeat application 14 days later. If the 1.9 oz. rate is used on Poa annua putting greens, extend the interval to 21 days.

Trifloxystrobin +Triadimefon

Tartan 2.4SC 2 28 2ee Label – Preventive: The first application should be made in winter/spring when 5-day average daily soil temperatures taken at 2" are 55ºF to 60ºF. In sandy soils, average air temperature can also be an adequate measure. Do not apply if daytime temperatures are above 80ºF. Discontinue applications of plant growth regulators (PGRs) one week before and after the Tartan applications. Apply using 2 gals. of spray per 1,000 ft2. Applications should be watered in with 1/8" to 1/4" of irrigation within 24 hours. Tank-mixing of wetting agents is not recommended with these preventive applications. Tank-mixing of wetting agents has resulted in a slight decrease in fungicide efficacy. Wetting agents should still be applied according to regular scheduling, preferably two weeks apart from the fungicide applications.

(1) Refer to the product label for information on the FRAC codes and manufacturer of the product.(2) Refer to the product label for specific information and instructions for safe and effective use. This list may not be inclusive of all

commercially available products. For example, Zerotol and Consan contain fairy ring statements on their product labels.


Cover Story • continued

Table 1. (continued) List of fungicide products currently labeled for the treatment of fairy ring symptoms.


Perhaps our current “sustainable” practices, such as a reduction in fertilizer rates, lower mowing heights and increased use of sand for topdressing/rootzone mixes all contribute to the frequent appearance of fairy ring by favoring the growth and development of these basidiomycetes in our turfgrass systems. Also, long wet/dry cycles — either due to the weather or irrigation practices — seem to be related to the appearance of fairy ring symptoms. Back on the mushroom farm, I remember irrigating the compost beds heavily and then instructing workers to use high-speed air handlers to dry out the growing rooms in order to stimulate mycelial growth and subsequent mushroom production. So, borrowing from my mushroom farming days, it appears that soil moisture management may be the key to fairy ring control in turf.

Fairy ring control optionsA fairy ring “spot” can be eradicated by carefully removing the sod, digging

out and removing the soil, replacing the rootzone mix and seeding or sod- ding. This intensive and time-consuming labor could turn into a large excavating project. Mushrooms can be mowed off easily, but keep an eye on that spot for further symptoms to develop, especially during drought stress periods. On close- cut turf, lush, excessive growth is easily scalped, which can lead to wilting and necrotic, damaged turf anyway.

Type II symptoms can be “masked” with an appropriate dose of nitrogen or iron to get the same dark green color over an entire turf area. In addition to urea or ammonium sulfate, other soil nutrition-related products are available from 3Tier Technologies, Grigg Brothers, Floratine, EarthWorks, AQUA-AID and others.

Several fungicides are currently labeled for fairy ring in turf, with new

7.

8.

Photo 7. Example of a “shaggy mane” mushroom common in lawns.

Photo 8. Type II fairy ring symptoms on a chipping green.


Fairy riNg aNd SociaL Media

ForthosewhousetheTwitter,besuretofollow#FriskyFairyRingFridayor#FFRF.TypicallyonFridayofeachweek,golfcoursesuperintendents,sportsturfmanagers,lawncareprofessionals,professorsinacademiaandothersinthegreenindustryposttheirfairyringphotos,questionsandcomments,andengageinaforumonallthingsfairyringinturf.Herearefewexamples:

ones added to the list this year. For best results, follow the label very carefully, especially the preventive and/or curative statements.

Also, include some key cultural practices. For example, spike or needle- tine or “punch holes” into the affected areas first. This may help get oxygen into the rootzone and displace any toxic gases. Next, apply a wetting agent (or soil surfactant), and immediately water it in enough to wet the rootzone (to overcome any hydrophobic conditions). Apply the fungicide next, and immediately “rinse-in” to wash the product off the turf canopy into the thatch and rootzone target areas. One timesaving option is to tank-mix the fungicide and wetting agent, and apply them together, followed by irrigation. Again, check the fungicide product label for recommendations on using wetting agents.

Keep in mind that repeat applications may be needed for either a preventive or curative program. Bayer Environmen- tal Science has developed a preventive program based on spring soil temperatures. Check their website (www.backed bybayer.com) for more details. And don’t forget to manage excessive thatch accumulation in turf, as that excess organic material also favors fairy ring.

Final thoughtsIt seems that every case of fairy ring is unique and different. It may occur on one green or fairway and not any others. It may be severe one year, but not the next. The products or practices that work on one golf course or lawn or ball field may not work at another site.

As previously mentioned, soil moisture content should be considered when battling fairy ring. Soil moisture monitoring is useful to help make decisions on irrigation practices. Most importantly, the use of wetting agents should help to alleviate those extreme wet/dry cycles associated with the appearance of fairy ring symptoms, and aid in turf recovery.

In conclusion, fairy ring remains a curious oddity of nature, and managing fairy ring symptoms in turf requires a multi-faceted approach along with patience and persistence. 7

Photo 1: @PACETurf

Photo 3: @turfmanpa

Photo 5: @turfdom

Photo 7: @JillCalabro

Photo 2: @turfdom

Photo 4: @GlobalTurf

Photo 6: @caleBIGelow

Photo 8: @MikeFidanza

Cover Story • continued


Section Name • continued

The

Between the Lines

Keystone Athletic Field Managers Organization was formed in 1994 by a small group of individuals

who were concerned about the quality of the athletic fields in Pennsylvania. In 1997, KAFMO became incorporated as a chap- ter of the Sports Turf Managers Association. Today, KAFMO is over 300 members strong, and each individual is committed to enhancing the professionalism of athletic field managers in the Keystone State. This commitment leads to more respect for your organization and better career opportunities.

Any individual, institution, organization, vendor or supplier who has sincere interest in athletic field maintenance is welcome to become a member. From high school, collegiate and professional athletic facilities, to parks and recreation departments, municipalities, educators, youth leagues, con- tractors and commercial vendors, our membership base is made up of a broad range of individuals who pool their knowledge and experience together for the good of our craft and to increase awareness of their professionalism.

Annual KAFMO events include the Athletic Field Confer- ence in February, a Summer Field Day and the KAFMO Cup Golf Tournament in October. Various other KAFMO-sponsored events are conducted throughout the state every year. Members also receive SportsTurf and Pennsylvania Turfgrass magazines.

To become a member, visit www.KAFMO.org. 7

The

PresidentDan Douglas

VicePresidentBobby Piccolo

SecretaryKeith Evans

TreasurerChris Lessig

ExecutiveSecretaryLinda Kulp200 River Vista Dr.Halifax, PA 17032

ScholarshipChairKevin Bevenour

MagazineChairSteve LeGros

AwardsChairDave Anderson

EducationChairNancy Bosold

2014 KaFMo/STMa oFFicerS

Contact: DanDouglas,President

Phone: [email protected]

Contact: LindaKulp,ExecutiveSecretaryPhone: 717-921-8803

[email protected]

KeystoneAthleticFieldManagersOrganization1451Peter’sMountainRoadDauphin,PA17018-9504www.KAFMO.orgEmail:[email protected]

Between the Lines

fall and winter can be very different from year to year. Over the years, I have

changed my fertility strategies to best match the changing environment. For instance, I have gotten away from late-fall applications of fertilizer. We often get periods of rains and warm spells during the winter months that thaw the ground; by waiting, I feel that we do not waste our fertilizer or money.

Instead, I typically wait to fertilize in the springtime until the soil temperatures average 50 degrees. Fifty-degree soil temperatures signify that the ground will most likely not freeze again and that the turfgrass plant is beginning to actively grow. As far as the type of fertilizer we use in that first application, I like a quick- to medium-release product to quickly green up the turf and start the rejuvenation process for the plant.

We use a combination of cultural practices and chemical applications to control winter diseases. We typically do not push the bluegrass with a lot of N in the fall. I believe that the plant can better store carbohydrates using this fertility method and prepare the plant naturally to defend against the winter if I am not pushing shoot growth.

Second, we try to solid deep-tine aerate the fields that we need to get out on the earliest in the spring so that the soil and plants have the healthiest environment possible through the winter months. Diseased areas are often low-light areas or compacted soils that do not drain well, so we try to alleviate these issues as best we can by opening them up in the late fall.

Finally, at the end of our fall season, we typically make preventative snow mold applications. I like to wrap up these applications in the last week of November. 7

Faster Turf recovery coming out of Winter

February 20, 201519th annual KaFMoathletic Field conferenceHoliday inn Harrisburg/Hershey

By Amy J. Fouty, CSFM, Michigan State University


asked Dr. Al Turgeon,

Professor Emeritus of turfgrass management at Penn State, how our industry has changed over time and what challenges he believes lie ahead. Dr. Turgeon currently teaches online courses in turfgrass-management programs offered through Penn State’s World Campus; he was the first tenured faculty member to accept the challenge of teaching online at Penn State.

How has the turfgrass industry changed over the past 30 years? Turgeon: The technological changes have been incredible, including improved turfgrasses, pesticides, PGRs (plant growth regulators) and fertilizer carriers, along with an impressive array of improved cultivation, application and mowing equipment and techniques.

With respect to personnel, the educational standard in the turf industry has risen from a two-year certificate to a four-year degree. With the offering of an online master’s degree, many [turf managers] have enrolled in this and other graduate programs in order to increase their knowledge and acquire credentials to enhance their ability to compete for the best jobs in the industry.

[Years ago], at the annual GCSAA

Conference and Show, many partici- pants could be found standing in the hallways, while sessions in the class- rooms were often lightly attended. Today, nearly everyone actively partici- pates in the sessions, and few can be found in the hallways, except during breaks. This is a clear indication that the professionalism of turf managers has increased substantially.

How has the sports turf industry changed?Turgeon: The hiring of college-educated sports turf managers has greatly improved the quality and safety of sports turfs. The regular use of field measurements of impact resistance within the National Football League and elsewhere is evidence of a much more scientific approach to field management within the sports turf industry.

What have been the industry’s biggest accomplishments?Turgeon: Higher educational standards, along with a dramatic increase in the array of commercially available technical resources, have resulted in a substantially greater capability to achieve and sustain extraordinary standards in turf quality throughout the turfgrass industry. This is true not only for natural turfs, but also for artificial turfs.

KAFMODr. Al Turgeon, Professor Emeritus of Turfgrass Management at Penn State.

Changes and Challenges in Turfgrass Management

What are its greatest challenges?Turgeon: Because nature is always changing and new problems are inevitable, new solutions will always be needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Despite the fact that the pesticides in use today are much safer than those used a generation or two earlier, there is constant pressure to reduce our dependency on pesticides. In some areas, there is a movement to ban pesticides for turfgrass altogether. Thus, while we must continue to become even less dependent on pesticides, we must also be better communicators on the need for some pesticides use, especially in the management of intensively cultured turfgrass communities.

Also, while we now have college- educated professionals in sports turf management, as well as in the businesses that support these opera- tions, we must ensure that these enterprises continue to attract very bright people to careers in the turfgrass industry. 7

ecently, we confirmed the polyploid origin of annual bluegrass (Poa annua) and proposed that the genetic interactions between its parental species (namely, Poa infirma and Poa supina), along with the associated whole

genome-doubling event, are the basis for Poa annua’s wide ecological amplitude and impressive adaptability. In an effort to gain additional genetic information on Poa annua, we initiated a small RNA (ribonucleic acid) sequencing project because a role for small RNAs has been implicated for polyploid evolution in other plant species.

Along with DNA and proteins, RNA is a major macromolecule that is essential for all life on earth. Small RNAs are a class of non-coding RNA molecules that play a role in regulating gene expression. In plants, small RNAs regulate a wide range of developmental processes, including leaf development, root radial patterning, floral development and hormonal responses.

We utilized the high-throughput capability of next-generation sequencing to examine the small RNA molecules of four profiles. Poa infirma, Poa supina, perennial-type Poa annua and annual-type Poa annua were analyzed. A total of 20,920,659 small RNA sequences, 18 to 30 nucleotides in length, were obtained.

Although no large differences were attributable to the polyploid nature of Poa annua, this study does provide a baseline of small RNA profiles for future research. In order to gain a better understanding of the extraordinary adaptability of Poa annua, future research may focus on examining small RNA profiles from different developmental stages, different environmental stresses and possibly different agronomical management practices. 7

Table 1. Sequencing data preprocessing summary for the numbers of small RNAs sequenced from Poa infirma, Poa supina and the perennial and annual types of Poa annua.

Profile Name Poa infirma Poa supinaPoa annua-

perennialPoa annua-

annual

size 18-30 nt reads 5,675,635 4,109,305 5,555,825 5,579,894

unique 18-30 nt reads 1,183,197 1,199,308 1,455,196 1,477,756

size 18-24 nt reads 3,949,819 2,843,601 3,866,150 4,015,032

unique 18-24 nt reads 883,498 943,788 1,102,444 1,181,096

18-24 nt t/rRNA filtered 2,946,959 2,202,377 2,940,788 3,117,465

unique 18-24 nt t/rRNA 838,595 899,352 1,048,877 1,130,447

Update submitted by Qing Mao, Ph.D., post-doctoral student, and David R. Huff, Ph.D., Professor of Turfgrass Breeding and Genetics, Penn State.

Turfgrass Ento- mology lab at Penn State has

undergone some changes this fall. Dr. Ben McGraw joined PSU in August and is currently getting a laboratory up and running. He, along with Danny Kline, will be conducting applied and basic research in several areas of concern to turfgrass managers in the region and beyond.

Dr. McGraw is looking to bring two graduate students into the lab for the spring 2015 semester. A master’s student will be examining the role that cultural practices (such as mowing height and fertilization programs) have on annual bluegrass weevil populations and the development of turf damage. A doctoral student will be joining the lab to examine why turfgrass ants have become an ever-increasing problem in the northeast and what impact they have on other insect pests early in the growing season.

The Lab is looking forward to the upcoming growing season, working with turfgrass managers in the region to better understand their insect issues. If you have any turfgrass insect issues or questions, please contact Dr. Ben McGraw at 814-865-1138 or [email protected] 7

Update submitted by Ben McGraw, Ph.D., Associate Professor in Agricultural Sciences, Penn State.


Research Summaries

The

The

R

McGraw Lab Research Update

News from the WPGRR Team

Furthering Our Understandingof the Genetic Basis of Poa annua

Weed and Plant Growth Regulator Research Team has two members: Melissa Arnett and Tracey Harpster. Our program evaluates new products and management strategies in many

different areas, but specifically in the areas of pre- and postemergence crabgrass control, annual bluegrass seedhead suppression and control, turfgrass tolerance, broadleaf weed control and PGR efficacy. The 2014 research season has proven very eventful. Again, we have evaluated products in all areas of our program. 7Update submitted by Jeffrey Borger, Senior Instructor in Turfgrass Weed Management, Penn State.

PTC Membership Application


MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIESjoining the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council (PTC), your club or company, or you as an individual, become part of an organization

dedicated to promoting professionalism in all aspects of the turfgrass industry and support of the Center for Turfgrass Science at Penn State University.

• PTC provides educational opportunities forpractitioners in all turfgrass-related industries.

• PTC provides grants and other support for educationand research programs at Penn State University.

• PTC encourages future industry leadership by grantingscholarships and awards.

• PTC acts as a liaison to the green industry bypromoting open dialogue with government agencies, private institutions and the general public.

PTC Invites You to — BECOME A MEMBER! —

ByIndividual — $50 annual dues

For the green-industry professional who wants to be part of the Council and support its activities.

Sustaining — $200 annual duesFor the business or turf professional who takes an active role in promoting the profession of turfgrass management, professional development and educational opportunities in the turfgrass industry.

Partner for Growth — $400 annual duesFor the business or club that desires a stronger affiliation with the Council and the Penn State Turfgrass Science Program.

Join online today, or renew your current membership at — www.paturf.org/membershipThe membership year is July 1 through June 31.

Penn StateTURF UPDATES

JohnBambury (Cert. ’05) is now course manager at Ballybunion Golf Club in Ireland.

MathewHarvey (Cert. ’13) is now working as an assistant superintendent at Cattail Creek Country Club.

TonyHorvath (B.S. ’87) is employed as an irrigation salesman for E.H. Griffith, Inc., the local Toro distributor located in Pittsburgh, PA. He recently received a Blue Blazer Award for the 2013 Golf Irrigation Salesperson of the Year. 7


Calendar of Events Penn State Turf Team Advertiser Index

January 6–7Eastern PA Turfgrass, Ornamental and Landscape ConferenceValley Forge Casino ResortKing of Prussia, PA

January 29Northeastern PA Turfgrass Conference and TradeshowWoodlands Inn and ResortWilkes Barre, PA

February 10–12Western PA Turf, Ornamental and Landscape ConferenceFour Points SheratonMars, PA

February 16–19TPI International Education Conference and Field DayOmni La Costa Resort & SpaCarlsbad, CA

February 2019th Annual KAFMO Athletic Field ConferenceHoliday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey

February 21–26Golf Industry ShowHenry B. Gonzalez Convention CenterSan Antonio, TX

The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council (PTC) serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinionsexpressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, PennsylvaniaTurfgrass, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or PTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this,past or subsequent issues of this publication. Copyright ©2015 by the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council. Pennsylvania Turfgrass, is published quarterly. Subscriptionsare complimentary to PTC members. Presorted standard postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Pennsylvania Turfgrass,allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to the PTC. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscriptsand photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contactLeading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

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Fisher & Son company inc. ................... 17www.fisherandson.com

FM Brown’s & Sons ................................ 23www.fmbrown.com

george e. Ley co. .................................. 23www.gelcogolf.com

Lebanon Turf ............................Back coverwww.lebturf.com

Medina Sod Farms, inc. ........................... 7www.medinasodfarms.com

Pennsylvania State University ................. 5www.psu.edu

Quali-Pro .......................inside Front coverwww.quali-pro.com

Seedway, LLc ......................................... 12www.seedway.com

Shreiner Tree care .................................. 23www.shreinertreecare.com

Smith Seed Services .............................. 23www.smithseed.com

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JeffreyA.Borger Senior Instructor in Turfgrass Weed Management814-865-3005 • [email protected]

MichaelA.Fidanza,Ph.D.Professor of Plant & Soil Science610-396-6330 • [email protected]

DavidR.Huff,Ph.D.Professor of Turfgrass Genetics814-863-9805 • [email protected]

JohnE.Kaminski,Ph.D. Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science814-865-3007 • [email protected]

DannyKlineResearch Technologist in

Turfgrass Entomology814-863-1669 • [email protected]

PeterJ.Landschoot,Ph.D.Professor of Turfgrass Science814-863-1017 • [email protected]

BenMcGraw,Ph.D.Associate Professor of

Turfgrass Entomology814-865-1138 • [email protected]

AndrewS.McNitt,Ph.D.Professor of Soil Science814-863-1368 • [email protected]

MaxSchlossberg,Ph.D. Associate Professor of Turfgrass Nutrition / Soil Fertility 814-863-1015 • [email protected]

AlJ.Turgeon,Ph.D.Professor Emeritus of Turfgrass [email protected]

WakarUddin,Ph.D.Professor of Plant Pathology814-863-4498 • [email protected]

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Documents

pdf/PA Turfgrass Winter 2015.pdf