PPA-1: Chemical Control of Turfgrass Diseases

T under intensive management are often subject to outbreaks of infectious diseases. Diseases usually are most damaging when weather or cultural conditions favor the disease-causing agent but not plant growth and vigor. Cultural conditions that enhance turfgrass diseases include close mowing, inadequate or excessive nitrogen fertility, light and frequent irrigations, excessive thatch, poor drainage, and shade. Good turf management practices often greatly reduce the impact of diseases by promoting healthy plants that are better able to resist infections. Even under good management, however, diseases sometimes cause excessive damage to highly managed turfgrasses. The proper use of fungicides in these instances, in conjunction with good cultural practices that promote quality turf, can be an important part of an overall disease management program. Fungicides available for controlling turfgrass diseases in Kentucky are listed in Tables 1 and 2. Specific application rates, safety precautions, and other important information are provided on the labels of the formulated products. Read these labels completely and carefully before using fungicides.