Leaf Spot Disease

"Rain? We don't need no stinkin rain!" Or wind, clouds, or cold for that matter.

As late May approaches, we are observing injury from disease "leaf spot" on fairway turfgrass. Leaf spot, caused by fungi drechslera, has been present since April, and usually does not alarm turf managers. However, extended cold and wet conditions this week is helping the disease to spread and become more damaging to plants. If left uncontrolled, leaf spot can take out large areas of turf and make for unhappy Golf Course Superintendents and golfers.

If and when the wind and rain stops this week, two fungicides will be applied to control leaf spot in a single application. Most years leaf spot disappears as quick as it comes as warm weather slows, then stops growth of the fungi within the plant. This is not a normal year, so far....