In my travels throughout various parts of Florida over the past few weeks, I have seen some recurring themes that plague golf courses in many other parts of the Southeast as well. During springtime, the drier weather pattern and onslaught of full tee sheets means stressed areas on golf courses – forcing superintendents to play defense at times. Nematodes are active, and unfortunately their damage is on full display at many courses. Golf courses are also flat-out beat up from all the traffic and play during the winter and early spring. While these struggles are real and part of the deal, taking a strategic approach to battling them will go a long way. As you put up the good fight, there are some things to remember.
When it comes to nematodes, this Green Section Record article can help you understand exactly what you are up against: “Best Management Practices for Controlling Turfgrass Nematodes.” Having samples tested to confirm what nematodes are present will aid your management decisions. The University of Florida Nematode Assay Lab can provide an accurate diagnosis and give recommendations for managing plant-parasitic nematodes. Remain vigilant as well, sometimes turf appearance and nematode counts do not match up. Consider adjusting fertility, cultural practices and irrigation cycles to encourage root growth and vitality. If areas need a nematicide application, consider adding a broad-spectrum fungicide and root health products, as these injured areas can be vulnerable to pathogens. Repeat applications may be needed, so review product labels and plan on rotating products to avoid possible resistance issues, including resistance to SDHI nematicides.
When it comes to traffic management at this time of year, instituting protection systems will help lighten the load on stressed areas. Putting out cart signs, ropes and stakes, or other directional devices can bring awareness and limit damage in high-traffic areas. You can also partner with the golf shop staff to make sure players know general cart rules and any areas to avoid. Website notices, social media posts and email newsletters can help communicate cart rules and restrictions before people book a round, so they’re not surprised when they arrive. Lastly, consider extra fertility and aerification in heavily worn areas to relieve compaction, promote growth and aid in recovery.
We are in this fight together. There are many great resources on traffic management and other issues in the USGA Green Section Record and we encourage you to reach out to your regional USGA agronomist if you need support. It won’t be long before the play begins to slow, more rain comes our way and cultural practices season starts – all of which will help heal the scars of the busy prime season.
Southeast Region Agronomists:
Jordan Booth, Ph.D., senior director, USGA Course Consulting Service – jbooth@usga.org
Chris Hartwiger, director, Agronomy – chartwiger@usga.org
Chris Neff, agronomist – cneff@usga.org
Mitch Leininger, agronomist - mleininger@usga.org
Information on the USGA’s Course Consulting Service
Contact the Green Section Staff
