turf

Taken from Turfgrass Diseases in Georgia byAlfredo Martinez, Extension Plan

Gray leaf spot is a fungus disease that affects several turfgrasses. It is a mainly a problem on St. Augustinegrass and perennial ryegrass. Hot humid summer weather and high nitrogen levels can make turf susceptible to this disease.

Occasionally turfgrass begins to thin and moss and algae begin to grow. These primitive plants develop because conditions for growing dense, healthy turf have declined. Neither moss nor algae are thought to be parasitic and both are spread by wind blown spores. Moss and algae can both form crusts on the soil surface which reduces air and water movement into the soil. Factors that favor the development of moss and algae include wet and humid conditions and compacted soils with thin turf.

The introduction of new turf herbicides will continue to enable practitioners to control troublesome weeds. In 2010, turf managers will see several new options for weed control from novel active ingredients, combination products, and label amendments. The following article contains an unbiased view on these products and discusses efficacy for turfgrass weed control.

Celsius (thiencarbazone + iodosulfuron + dicamba)

The following are insect pests that you might expect to see during April in Georgia. Become familiar with them so you will be able to recognize them in landscapes you visit.

We have included links to more information for many of these insect pests. Click on the insect names to find online resources that can help you to identify and manage these pests.

For pesticide recommendations, see the Pest Control Handbook.

Often one of our biggest problems in the spring is fertilizing turf too early. Early application of fertilizer can lead to early green up. Though this may please the client, turf that greens up early can be more susceptible to damage by late cold weather. Early fertilization may predispose the turf to disease problems. Also, nitrogen applied too early may not be taken up by plant roots which are still dormant. This nitrogen can be lost by leaching and runoff.

Florida betony or rattlesnake weed (Stachys floridana) is a problem weed in both turf and ornamentals. Florida betony or rattlesnake weed is a “winter” perennial. Florida betony is dormant during the hot, humid summers of the South.

Just like trees, shrubs, pets and even humans, turf grasses need water to survive. The perception that turf is a water consumer is correct, but we're all water consumers.
 
The forgotten benefits

Often forgotten are the environmental benefits of a healthy turf. Grass prevents soil erosion, filters rainwater, traps airborne dust and soot and acts as a noise abatement.