MTC Turf News - Winter 2016

WINTER 2016

Snow Blower Safety Tips Plus, Preview of the

Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo, January 30 – February 2, 2017

ANTHRACNOSE MANAGEMENT

STRATEGIES FOR THE MID-ATLANTIC SUPERINTENDENT

16

22

24

CONTENTS • WINTER 2016 10 UPCOMING EVENT Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo, January 30 – February 2, 2017

22 EQUIPMENT BASICS Snow Blower Safety Tips: Keep Best Practices in Mind This Winter

DEPARTMENTS 06 President’s Message 08 From the MTC Executive Director 25 Index of Advertisers

16 COVER STORY A Review of Anthracnose Management Strategies for the Mid-Atlantic Superintendent

4

MTC TURF NEWS

24 RECENT EVENT UMD/MTC Golf Tournament for Turfgrass Research, September 28

26 Calendar of Events 26 University of MD Turf Team

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

VOLUNTEER AND PARTICIPATE! “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

–Author Unknown thought this is a very pertinent quote for our times. As this past presidential election proved that every vote counts, so will your efforts count when you volunteer at the local, state, national or even trade-association level. My term as Maryland Turfgrass Council president is about to end. I definitely grew into this position after first thinking I could not adequately handle the responsibilities and challenges. I’m sure the first meetings I presided over left a lot to be desired.

With that, I would like to thank all of the volunteers in the turfgrass community at the MTC. Among them are the members of the MTC board of directors, as they made my job more manageable. As a group, we grew the MTC membership, increased member benefits and worked on additional educational opportunities.

I would also like to thank the sponsors and advertisers that supported and continue to support the Maryland Turfgrass Council’s mission.

Next in line to volunteer his time and expertise as MTC president is Jamie Roell, who works at Anne Arundel County Parks and Rec. Jamie has been the MTC vice president for a few years and will move up to president if you elect him to that position at our January Annual Meeting during M-A-T-E. The MTC is in great hands with Jamie at the helm and will continue to move in a positive direction for its membership and supporters. Make an effort to say hello at the next Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E) conference and tradeshow.

Speaking of M-A-T-E, I hope you make plans to attend the next event on January 30 – February 2, 2017, in Fredericksburg, VA. University of MD and VA Tech’s Drs. Tom Turner and Mike Goatley started planning early for this event.

Their hard work has paid off again with securing some top-notch speakers and great turf-management topics. Last year’s M-A-T-E conference and tradeshow generated more than $20,000 toward turf research for those universities. This year’s proceeds will again go to the university turfgrass-research programs. Help us surpass last year’s number… so please, get the word out. I hope to see you there!

Go out and volunteer for the kind of community you want to live in, and promote the benefits of turfgrass!

I

Thanks!

Bill Warpinski 2015–2016 MTC President

6

MTC TURF NEWS

MARYLAND TURFGRASS COUNCIL 303 S. Talbot St. #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 ExecDir@MDTurfCouncil.com www.mdturfcouncil.org MTC Turf News is published quarterly for the MTC by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge St. Franklin, TN 37064 615-790-3718 (phone) 615-794-4524 (fax) info@leadingedge communications.com

2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Bill Warpinski Central Sod Farms Centreville, MD Office: 800-866-1387 Cell: 410-320-7791 bill@centralsod.com

VICE PRESIDENT Jamie Roell Anne Arundel County Recreation & Parks Millersville, MD Office: 410-222-6250 Cell: 443-370-2582 rproel09@aacounty.org

SECRETARY/ TREASURER Cheryl A. Gaultney Churchville, MD Home: 410-734-0650 Cell: 410-322-8275 sandqueen10@aol.com

PAST PRESIDENT Lester Dubs Larchwood Landscape Co. Pasadena, MD Cell: 443-623-1745 ldubs@verizon.net

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Vernon W. Cooper 303 S. Talbot St., #389 St. Michaels, MD 21663 Cell: 443-742-6618 Office: 410-745-9643 Fax: 410-745-8867 ExecDir@ MDTurfCouncil.com

ONE-YEAR DIRECTORS Clifton Cullison PD&E, LLC Stevensville, MD Cell: 410-428-4188 cullisonclifton@gmail.com Geoffrey Rinehart National Arboretum Washington, D.C. Office: 202-245-5956 Cell: 202-245-5965 geoffrey.rhinehart@ ars.usda.gov Chuck Wilkes Pennington Seed Laurel, MD Office: 800-732-3332 Cell: 240-319-0043 cwilkes@pennington seed.com

TWO-YEAR DIRECTORS Kimberly Bohn Newsom Seed Fulton, MO Office: 800-553-2719 Cell: 443-875-5533 kimberly@newsom seed.com Ben Ellis The Courses at Andrews Joint Base Andrews, MD Office: 301-440-9882 Cell: 571-340-0122 benjamin.ellis@aafbgc.com Position: Open

THREE-YEAR DIRECTORS Doug Lechlider Laytonsville Landscaping Laytonsville, MD Office: 301-253-1481 Cell: 240-372-2788 doug@laytonsville landscaping.com Dave Nehila Genesis Turfgrass Fallston, MD Cell: 410-404-0112 dave@genesis turfgrassinc.com Les Phelps Les Phelps Lawn Care Linthicum, MD Cell: 443-623-5472 phelpslawncare@ yahoo.com

MTC Membership Application _____________________________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address (where you want MTC Turf News delivered) _____________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code _____________________________________________________________________ Company Name _____________________________________________________________________ Company Address (if different from above) _____________________________________________________________________ Company City, State, Zip Code _____________________________________________________________________ Email Address _____________________________________________________________________ Business Phone Cell Phone Additional Company Members: Please attach a listing of additional members.

Detach and Send to: Maryland Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 389 • St. Michaels, MD 21663

___ Individual Member ......................................................$50 ___ Student/Educator/Retiree .............................................$15 ___ Master Gardener/ Non-Profit Volunteer Member........$25 ___ Public Agency (1 to 10 employees) ..........................*$150 Each additional employee ............................................$15 ___ Business (circle one): (1 to 5 employees)* .................................... $175 (Bronze) (6 to 10 employees)* .....................................$350 (Silver) (11 to 15 employees)* ................................... $500 (Gold) (16 to 20 employees)* ........................... $1000 (Platinum) (21+ employees)*.................................$1,500 (Palladium) *Submit employee names for membership cards to the MTC Executive Director.

Amount Included $ _____________________________________ ___ Check made to MTC ___ Credit Card (MC or Visa) ______________________________________________________ Name as it appears on credit card ______________________________________________________ Address where card is billed ______________________________________________________ Card Number ______________________________________________________ Exp. Date 3-Digit Security Code (on back)

WINTER 2016

7

FROM THE MTC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Starting Anew In • • • • •

•

the turfgrass profession, we often think of winter as a “period of rest,” but is it really? Winter in my opinion is really for “starting anew!”

We use winter to purchase, repair and mend equipment to start a new season.

We use winter to purchase or order seed, fertilizer, pesticides and other supplies to get the best price.

We use winter to prepare new and additional marketing to increase our business.

We use winter to train our employees with current and new knowledge to do the job better and safer.

We use winter to take some time to enjoy family and friends over Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and other special holidays in our lives to rejuvenate our bodies and spirits.

We use winter to register to attend the Annual M-A-T-E Conference in Fredericksburg to increase our professional networking, to expand our agronomic knowledge, to renew our pesticides and fertilizer applicator certifications and to partake in what is NEW.

What is new?

We are always looking to improve the M-A-T-E program to provide you with what you’ve been requesting. After all, this is “your” conference.

This year, we are trying a couple classes on Tuesday in Spanish. Dr. Jorge Ribas, the president and CEO of the Mid-Atlantic Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will provide classes on the basic introduction to turfgrass and also an understanding of the pesticide and fertilizer applicator requirements. This was brought to us as a need, and we have responded. Early interest appears to indicate we will be adding additional classes in Spanish next year.

Additionally, there are four days of new informative classes and information with the keynote speaker, Dr. Dan Potter from Kentucky, delivering a key note talk on “Bee Decline, Pesticides and Politics: Challenges and Opportunities for the Green Industry.” Pesticide recertification will also be offered on multiple days this year.

The expanded tradeshow has lots of new and returning vendors, but a few spaces are still available. Would YOU like to be an exhibitor? Go to www.turfconference.org to download the vendor forms and/or if you prefer to become a sponsor.

Get your registration done today — YOU don’t want to miss this, and remember that all profits go directly to the University of Maryland and Virginia Tech for local turfgrass research to help us all evolve. Contact me for an application or assistance at ExecDir@MDTurfCouncil.com or 410-745-9643.

See you in Fredericksburg!

Vernon W. Cooper MTC Executive Director

8

MTC TURF NEWS

WINTER 2016

9

UPCOMING EVENT

January 30 – February 2, 2017

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E)

For up-to-the-minute updates and to register online, visit

www.turfconference.org Monday, January 30 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Turfgrass 101 Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech, and Tom Turner, Ph.D., University of Maryland 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Golf Session

Growing For Our Future Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center Fredericksburg, VA

USGA Green Section Golf Turf Year in Review Darin Bevard, Director of Championship Agronomy, and Elliot Dowling, USGA Optimizing Annual Bluegrass Seedhead Suppression Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Problematic Disease Issues of 2016 Steve McDonald, Turfgrass Disease Solutions Dollar Spot Suppression with Iron Sulfate David McCall, Ph.D., and Cam Shelton, Virginia Tech

Tuesday, January 31 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

The Virginia Turfgrass Council and Maryland Turfgrass Council are delighted to invite you to the organizations’

Welcome

second annual combined conference — the Mid-Atlantic

MTC & VTC Annual Meetings

Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E) — slated for January 30 – February 2. Again this year, all profits from the event will be given to the turfgrass research projects at Virginia Tech and the University of Maryland!

Dress for both the educational sessions and the Expo is business casual.

10

General Session

MTC TURF NEWS

Keynote Presentation — Bee Decline, Pesticides and Politics: Challenges and Opportunities for the Green Industry Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mechanic’s Seminar Day One of Two (see page 12)

Tuesday, January 31 (continued)

Wednesday, February 1

9:45 a.m. –11:45 a.m.

9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Turf/Horticulture Basics Taught in Spanish

Sod Production Session

7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

Fellowship Breakfast

9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Golf Session Dollar Spot Development and Forecasting and New Control Methods John Inguagiato, Ph.D., University of Connecticut Barriers to Biological Control of Diseases of Cool-Season Turfgrasses Joe Roberts, Ph.D., University of Maryland Dealing with Extremes and Alternative Management Programs Jon Lobenstine, Montgomery County (MD) Golf Preventing Skin Disease Problems Molly Roberts, PA-C Dermatology 9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Lawn Care Session Top 10 Nasty Insect Pests of Trees and Shrubs and How to Deal with Them Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky Controlling Crabgrass, Goosegrass and Roughstalk Bluegrass in Turfgrass Jeff Derr, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Plant, Soil and Environmental Benefits of Compost Applications for Lawns Mark Carroll, Ph.D., University of Maryland The Latest on Weed Control in Ornamentals Kenneth Ingram, MS, University of Maryland

Maximizing Herbicide Efficiency and Efficacy in Difficult Years Steve McDonald, Turfgrass Disease Solutions Controlling Turf Insect Pests: It’s Getting Easier to Be Green Dan Potter, Ph.D., University of Kentucky Nutrient-Management Impacts on Early-Season Diseases of Cool- and Warm-Season Grasses in Sod Production Joe Roberts, Ph.D. University of Maryland 9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Sports Turf Session A History of Technological Advances in Sports Turf Management Kevin Mathias, Ph.D., University of Maryland

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mechanic’s Seminar Day Two of Two (see page 12) 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification (3A, 3B, 60 ONLY) 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 Part One of Two 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Trade Show and Lunch 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Part Two of Two 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

University of Maryland and Virginia Tech Research Updates University of Maryland and Virginia Tech faculty, staff and graduate students will give short research updates, summarizing their most current and pertinent research findings for the Mid-Atlantic turfgrass industry.

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Trends in Cultural Management Practices in Intensely Maintained Sports Turf John Turnour, Washington Nationals Baseball

Tradeshow and Lunch

Weed Control in Trafficked Systems Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Thursday, February 2

Summer Patch Issues & Control in Sports Turf John Inguagiato, Ph.D., University of Connecticut 12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lunch — Free with registration.

12:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

TRADESHOW Please visit our exhibitors!

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT

Please visit our exhibitors!

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Virginia and Maryland Sod Growers Meetings

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Fertilizer Recertification (VA and MD) 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator Training and Examination 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Initial Pesticide Review of Core and Offering of Pesticide Exams for Virginia (You must bring an approval letter from VDACS.)

Next to the tradeshow floor.

WINTER 2016

11

UPCOMING EVENT • continued

Don’t Miss the

During the

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO January 31 – February 1, 2017 Tuesday, January 31

Wednesday, February 1

Morning Session

Morning Session

Only $70

Welding

Expectations Roundtable

for VTC and MTC Members

Lunch

Late Morning

$95

Included with Registration

Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

for Non-Members (Fees increase after January 10.)

Afternoon

Lunch

Register online at

Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

Included with Registration

www.turfconference.org

Afternoon Session Landscape Equipment Maintenance

12

Registration Details

MTC TURF NEWS

or use the registration form on the next page.

UPCOMING EVENT • continued

Registration Form

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E) January 30 – February 2, 2017 • Fredericksburg, VA • Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center Program and lodging information: www.turfconference.org Full Name: ___________________________________________ (First name for badge): ________________________________ Company/Organization:_____________________________________________________________________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________________________ State: _____________ Zip/Postal Code: __________________ Telephone:(______) ____________________________________ Fax:(______) _________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONFERENCE FEES (POSTMARKED BY JANUARY 10; Prices increase after that date.)

1. Registration Fees MTC OR VTC MEMBER MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY Member Rate Non-Member Rate One Day $90 $125 Two Days $170 $205 Three Days $250 $285 Mechanic’s Seminar ONLY $70 $95 THURSDAY

FREE

$60

WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s).

Monday; Tuesday; Wednesday; Mechanics Seminar; Thursday COST:

$ _________________________

2. Attend Trade Show ONLY ($20 per Day, includes Lunch and Tuesday Reception) WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s): Tuesday or Wednesday

$ _________________________

3. JOIN OR RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

$ _________________________

VTC Regular Membership (January 1 – December 31) $85 MTC Regular Membership (February 1 – January 31) $50 Further membership options at http://turfconference.org/registration.html Total Enclosed

$ _________________________

Cancellations/Changes and Refunds:

Fees for missed meals, late arrivals and early departures will not be refunded. Fees will be refunded, less a $20.00 processing fee, if cancellation or change resulting in a refund is received in writing no later than January 10, 2017. After that date, fees are non-refundable. All refunds will be processed after the conference. Substitutions are allowed at no charge.

PAYMENT METHOD: Check to: Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (or MATE). Registration confirmation/receipt will be mailed.

Please check appropriate box: Check AMEX VISA MasterCard Card #: ______________________________________________ Print Cardholder Name: _______________________________ Card Security Code Number: ___________________________ Expiration Date: _____________________________________ Please mail, fax, or scan and email completed registration form with payment to: M-A-T-E P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 14

MTC TURF NEWS

Phone: (757) 464-1004 FAX: (757) 282-2693 Email: vaturf@verizon.net

COVER STORY

A REVIEW OF

FOR THE MID-ATLANTIC SUPERINTENDENT

By Cody Beckley, Graduate Student, and Joseph Roberts, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Turfgrass Pathology, University of Maryland

Few

turfgrass diseases impact the quality of annual bluegrass putting greens more rapidly than anthracnose can. If left unchecked, this disease is capable of quickly thinning out turf stands and leaving pitted, scarred putting surfaces in its wake. Mid-Atlantic managers of annual bluegrass turf are likely to have a difficult time dealing with this stress-induced disease, due to the often ever-present summer heat and humidity of the region. Fortunately, in the last decade, university research has provided

16

MTC TURF NEWS

new and updated best management practices (BMPs), including validation of new chemical control options.

To assist turfgrass managers with their off-season preparations, this article will provide an overview of the pathogen, discuss critical control periods of the disease and review BMPs for optimum control. Winter months offer an excellent opportunity to plan ahead, as some of the recommendations may require a significant investment of resources, along with consistent implementation, to be most effective.

Pathogen, host, occurrence and symptoms Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum cereale, which can overwinter in turf or soil before infecting its grass host. While at least 13 warm- and cool-season turfgrasses are susceptible to anthracnose, annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass are the most vulnerable.

Disease distribution often occurs wherever these turf types are grown at putting green height (below 0.125"), although anthracnose can occur on higher cut turf as well.

these structures under the microscope will reveal numerous spores capable of spreading infection to neighboring plants (Photo 4).

Cultural controls Cultural practices that mitigate traditional environmental stress factors can limit the incidence and severity of anthracnose infection. Still, it is important to consider the following recommendations when planning your management strategies.

Fertility Turfgrass should be appropriately fertilized throughout the year as dictated by soil-test recommendations and weather patterns. Granular applications of N (1 to 2 lbs./1,000 ft2) have been shown to be more effective at reducing anthracnose on annual bluegrass greens when applied in the spring vs. the fall. Regarding foliar applications, research has shown that starting frequent applications of low-rate soluble-N fertilization (0.1 lb./1,000 ft2/ week) earlier in the growing season reduced anthracnose severity up to 24% compared to applying the same rate every 28 days. They also found that slight increases in N rate (0.2 lb./1,000 ft2/week) on areas with historic problems can aid in disease suppression.

Irrigation

Anthracnose disease can manifest as a foliar blight or basal rot infection.

Foliar blight anthracnose typically occurs in the summer, when temperatures are at or above 78°F along with periods of extended leaf wetness. Symptoms include small yellow- to orange-colored spots on turf (Photo 1), and close inspection of infected tissue can show small lesions.

Though foliar blight symptoms may be the first indication that the disease is present, basal rot anthracnose may be the first to develop. Basal rot anthracnose can occur in the spring, summer or fall when temperatures range from 58°F

to 70°F, also combined with periods of extended leaf wetness. Symptoms of basal rot appear as a patchy yellowing of upper-leaf tissue, but the as the name implies, the bases of infected plants exhibit dark discoloration and rotting of leaf sheaths, crowns and stolons (Photo 2).

Continued disease progression can result in similar symptoms as described with foliar blight, ultimately leading to large, irregular patches of discolored, thin turfgrass (Photo 3). Large amounts of black, spiked fruiting structures (acervuli) can be observed with either foliar blight or basal rot infection. Examination of

The stress a plant experiences from frequent wilting or prolonged saturation greatly increases vulnerability to anthracnose. Drought stress has been shown to be especially operative in regards to anthracnose severity on annual bluegrass.

You should irrigate to promote growth and to avoid prolonged wet or dry periods. Previous research has shown 80% ET replacement to be ideal. When possible, use a moisture meter to guide your irrigation scheduling and handwater to correct deficiencies.

Topdressing and aerification Well-draining, non-compacted soil profiles created by regular topdressing and aerification practices favor turfgrass that resists anthracnose disease. A multiyear study at Rutgers showed that weekly or bi-weekly sand topdressing reduced the severity of anthracnose on annual blue-

WINTER 2016

17

COVER STORY • continued

1 Photo 1. The first signs of foliar blight anthracnose on annual bluegrass putting green turf.

Photo 2. Close-up of infected annual bluegrass turfgrass. The dark color of the plant base is characteristic of anthracnose basal rot infection.

Photo 3. Large, irregular patches developing on an annual bluegrass green.

2

3

grass putting greens. The sand build-up provided a protective layer over crown tissue and firmed the putting surface for mowers and foot traffic. Brushing the sand in after application had no effect on anthracnose severity, contrary to popular belief that the wounding from brushing sand into the profile would increase disease.

If frequent applications are not achievable, heavier spring topdressings were shown to be most effective for disease reduction. For soil profiles that require amending beyond regular topdressing, yearly aerification and periodic solid-tine venting will improve drainage and increase oxygen availability to roots during stressful environmental conditions.

Mowing and rolling Cutting height has been shown to have a significant influence on anthracnose severity on greens-height turfgrass, more

18

MTC TURF NEWS

so than any other part of a mowing and rolling regime. Excessively low mowing heights (i.e., below 0.125") have been implicated in anthracnose outbreaks. Not only does low mowing leave plants with less photosynthetic leaf tissue, but also it can result in scalping and damage to crown tissue during saturated conditions. Standard mowing and rolling frequency (daily single or double cut, daily lightweight roll) has no effect on disease incidence.

In the event of an outbreak, incremental increases in mowing height can offset infection and speed recovery.

Switching to solid rollers on mowing equipment may also reduce stress and disease progression. Mowing and rolling frequency can be maintained or increased to retain adequate green speed at higher heights of cut.

Finally, ensure that all mowing equipment is cleanly cutting leaf tissue. Mower reels and bedknives should be checked routinely to ensure that turfgrass is cut and not torn.

Environment Stress brought on by sub-optimal growing conditions predisposes turfgrass to anthracnose infection. Ensure that all turfgrass receives the year-round, maximum exposure to sunlight and air movement as is possible. Prune or remove trees and shrubs that shade greens or hinder air movement across the turfgrass canopy.

Fans can also be utilized to increase air circulation in pocketed areas.

In areas with historic disease pressure, consider implementing changes in mowing height and fan use when daytime highs reach and exceed 85°F and nighttime lows don’t drop below 65°F. Make any other adjustments in response to changes in environmental conditions, not just in response to seeing the disease. Ultimately, all cultural practices are most effective at minimizing the incidence of anthracnose infection when used proactively.

Chemical controls When cultural controls are not sufficient to fend off anthracnose, many fungicides

WINTER 2016

19

to this disease is greatly amplified when plant health is compromised by nutrient and water deficiencies, prolonged stressful environmental conditions or mechanical injury to the plant. For managing historically problematic areas, consider modifying your cultural practices well in advance of environmental stress periods or the appearance of the disease.

Ultimately, you should plan your management strategies early in the year and commit to consistent implementation of BMPs. Fungicides are also very effective tools to control anthracnose and should be used in a responsible manner to minimize resistance issues. If you have any other questions or concerns regarding the disease, contact the University of Maryland Turfgrass Research Program. We’re happy to assist you any way we can.

4 Photo 4. Microscopic view of an acervulus and conidia produced by Colletotrichum cereale.

are available for use in controlling the disease. Multiple chemical classes have historically provided control on nonresistant strains of the disease, including benzimidazoles (thiophanate-methyl), demethylation inhibitors (metconazole, propiconazole, tebuconazole and triticonazole), dicarboximides (iprodione), nitriles (chlorothalonil), phosphonates (aluminum-tris), polyoxin (polyoxin-D) and strobilurins (azoxystrobin, trifloxystrobin). In addition to these classes, newer carboxamides (penthiopyrad) and even new use of an older aromatic hydrocarbon (pentachloronitrobenzene) have also shown good control of the disease.

When considering chemical controls, preventative fungicide applications are

most effective in anthracnose management. Apply according to label directions when weather conditions are favorable for disease development, in areas where anthracnose is a common problem. Colletotrichum cereale has demonstrated resistance to fungicides in the past, so avoiding consecutive applications of the same fungicide chemistry or tank-mixing multiple chemical classes will aid in minimizing fungicide-resistance development.

Summary It is often said that anthracnose is considered a secondary stress-related disease; therefore, maintaining a healthy plant is your first and best defense against any outbreaks. Turfgrass susceptibility

References Aynardi, B., J.C. Inguagiato, S. McDonald and B.B. Clarke. “Lessen Your Anthracnose Struggles.� Golfdom, March 11, 2016. Web. 9 June, 2016.

Hempfling, J.W., B. B. Clarke and J. A. Murphy. 2015. Anthracnose disease on annual bluegrass as influenced by spring and summer topdressing. Crop Sci. 55: 437-443.

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2008. Anthracnose severity on annual bluegrass influenced by nitrogen, fertilization, growth regulators, and verticutting. Crop Sci. 48:1595-1607.

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2009. Anthracnose disease and annual bluegrass putting green performance affected by mowing practices and lightweight rolling. Crop Sci. 49:1454-1462.

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2009. Anthracnose of annual bluegrass putting green turf influenced by trinexapac-ethyl application interval and rate. J. Int. Turf Soc. 11: 207-218.

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2010. Anthracnose development on annual bluegrass affected by seedhead and vegetative growth regulators. Applied Turf Sci. DOI:10.1094/ATS-20100923-01-RS.

20

MTC TURF NEWS

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2012. Sand topdressing rate and interval effects on anthracnose disease severity of an annual bluegrass putting green. Crop Sci. 52:1406-1415.

Inguagiato, J.C., J.A. Murphy and B.B. Clarke. 2013. Topdressing sand particle shape and incorporation effects on anthracnose severity of an annual bluegrass putting green. J. Int. Turf Soc. 12: 127-134.

Murphy, J. A., B.B. Clarke and J.A. Roberts. 2008. Development of best management practices for anthracnose disease on annual bluegrass putting green turf. In: 2008 USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Summary.

USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Online 7(23):5.

Murphy, J.A., J.C. Inguagiato and B.B. Clarke. 2012. Best management practices for anthracnose on annual bluegrass. Golf Course Management 80(5): 104-110.

Murphy, J.A., B.B. Clarke, C.J. Schmid, et al. 2011. Development of best management practices for anthracnose disease on annual bluegrass putting green turf.

In: 2011 USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Summary. USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Online 10(23):2.

Murphy, J., F. Wong, L. Tredway, J.A. Crouch, J. Inguagiato, B.B. Clarke, T. Hsiang and F. Rossi. 2008. Best management practices for anthracnose on annual bluegrass turf. Golf Course Management 24: 93-104.

Roberts, J.A., B.B. Clarke and J.A. Murphy. 2012. Lightweight rolling effects on anthracnose of annual bluegrass putting greens. Agron. J. 104(4):1176-1181.

Roberts, J.A., J.C. Inguagiato, B.B. Clarke and J.A. Murphy.

2011. Irrigation quantity effects on anthracnose disease of annual bluegrass. Crop Science 51: 2044-1252.

Settle, D.M., A.D. Martinez-Espinoza and L.L. Burpee. 2006. Anthracnose of Turfgrass. The Plant Health Instructor.

DOI:10.1094/PHI-I-2006-1205-01. • WINTER 2016

21

EQUIPMENT BASICS

Snow Blower Safety Tips: Keep Best Practices in Mind This Winter From the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute

W

ith winter snows arriving, many turf professionals will again rely on their snow blowers to clear driveways and walks. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is offering tips for safe and correct use of snow blowers.

“Your indispensable winter friend, the snow blower is ready to be powered up, and it’s important to keep safety in mind,” says OPEI president and CEO Kris Kiser. “Be sure to prepare and consider the following tips before you use your equipment.”

Prepare before it snows.

Review your owner’s manual, and check your equipment.

Check your owner’s manual for safe handling procedures from your manufacturer. If you forgot to drain the fuel last winter before storing your snow blower, drain the tank now. Adjust any cables. Check the auger (the snow blower should always be completely powered off when you are checking the equipment).

Know how to operate the controls. You should be able to shut off your equipment quickly.

Prepare your fuel, and handle it properly.

It’s important to have the right fuel on hand for your snow blower — movement and fuel availability may be limited during a snowstorm. Be sure to use the correct fuel, as recommended by your equipment’s manufacturer (for more information on fueling properly see www.lookbefore youpump.com). Fill up the fuel tank

22

MTC TURF NEWS

outside before you start the engine and while the engine is cold. Never add fuel to a running or hot engine.

Be sure to clean the area you intend to clear with your equipment.

Snow can sometimes hide objects that if run over by a snow blower, may harm the machine or people. Doormats, hoses, balls, toys, boards, wires and other debris should be removed from the areas you intend to clear.

Dress appropriately.

Wear safety glasses and footwear that can handle slippery surfaces.

Operate your equipment safely.

KEY SAFETY TIP: Never put your hands inside the auger or chute.

Use a clean-out tool (or stick) to unclog snow or debris from your snow blower.

Your hands should never go inside the auger or chute. Make sure the snow blower is in the off position before addressing any clogs.

Turn OFF your snow blower if you need to clear a clog.

If you need to remove debris or unclog snow, always turn off your snow blower first. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before clearing any clogs or debris.

Only use your snow blower in visible conditions.

Never operate the snow blower without

good visibility or light.

Aim your snow blower with care.

Never throw snow toward people or cars.

Do not allow anyone to stand in front of your snow blower. Keep children or pets away from your snow blower when it is operating.

Use extreme caution on slopes and hills.

Use caution when changing directions on slopes. Do not attempt to clear steep slopes.

Know where your cord is.

If you have an electric-powered snow blower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times. Avoid tripping. Do not run over the power cord.

More safety tips and information are available at www.opei.org.

About OPEI The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is an international trade association representing more than 100 power equipment, engine and utility vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. OPEI is the advocacy voice of the industry and a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). It is active internationally through the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in the development of safety and performance standards. •

RECENT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND’S GOLF TOURNAMENT FOR TURFGRASS RESEARCH HOSTED BY THE MARYLAND TURFGRASS COUNCIL, SEPTEMBER 28

By Ben Ellis, The Courses at Andrews, and Coordinator of the Event for MTC

The post-tournament crab feast.

Congratulations to our winning team. Above (left to right): Lee Ellis, Zac Ellis, Nick and Dave Cammarota (holding the center trophy), Ben Ellis and Mike Butler.

24

MTC TURF NEWS

the morning of Wednesday, September 28, the rain falling and lightning flashing in the sky above had me pacing around Queenstown Harbor Golf Course’s Pavilion in a panic that all the work over the last few months would wash out this year’s Maryland Turfgrass Council annual golf tournament.

Initially named The Angie Cammarota Golf Tournament for Turfgrass Research, the golf tournament raises funds to help support turfgrass research projects at the University of Maryland.

Despite the rain, the golf tournament went on very nicely. While enjoying donuts, bagels and coffee, Dr. Joseph Roberts talked with attendees about updates in his research at the University as well as problems he has seen throughout the year. After the rain lightened up, a modified round of golf was played in a best-ball format, with prizes going for Closest to The Pin, Long Drive and First and Second Place teams. We ended with an outstanding Crab Feast and dinner while we gave out awards to winners, held a 50/50 drawing and raffled off a few prizes. Congratulations were given to Ben Ellis, Zac Ellis, Lee Ellis and Mike Butler as the winning team. Dave and Nick Cammarota awarded the team with the inaugural Cammarota trophy (graciously donated by Genesis Turfgrass) in honor of former MTC member, past MTC president and father, Angie Cammarota.

Big thanks to all of our sponsors, donators and participants. The University of Maryland Golf Tournament for Turfgrass Research Hosted by the Maryland Turfgrass Council raised nearly $3,000!

A thank you goes out to the maintenance department at Queenstown Harbor Golf Course and everyone who helped to make this day educational, fun and memorable.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our next golf tournament scheduled for September 27, 2017. •

On

ADVERTISER INDEX

All States Turfgrass Consultants, LLC ............. 25 Buy Sod .................................. Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com

Central Sod Farms of Maryland, Inc. ................. 9 www.centralsodmd.com

Chesapeake Supply & Equipment Co. ............. 20 www.equipmentbychesapeake.com

Chesapeake Valley Seed ................................... 7 www.chesapeakevalleyseed.com

Collins Wharf Sod Farm .................................. 21 www.collinswharfsod.com

CoverSports USA ............................................ 21 www.coversports.com

Crop Production Services Professional Products...................................... 19 East Coast Sod & Seed ................................... 26 www.eastcoastsod.com

Ernst Conservation Seed .....................................25 www.ernstseed.com

Fisher & Son Company, Inc. ...............................23 www.fisherandson.com

King Sports Construction ................................ 19 www.kingsportsconstruction.com

Leading Edge Communications ..........................15 www.leadingedgecommunications.com

Lebanon Turf.............................. Inside Front Cover www.lebanonturf.com

Mid-Atlantic Association of Turf Equipment Managers .............................. 21 Mid-Atlantic Stihl Inc. ....................................... 5 www.stihldealers.com

Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc. ...................... 9 www.progressiveturfequip.com

Shady Oaks Turf Farm .................................... 26 www.shadyoaksturffarm.com

Smith Seed Services....................................... 26 www.smithseed.com

Summit Hall Turf Farm Inc. ............... Back Cover The Turfgrass Group ...................................3, 13 www.theturfgrassgroup.com

MTC Turf News is the Maryland Turfgrass Council magazine. Subscriptions are complimentary to MTC members. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, its board of directors, MTC Turf News, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as MTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in any issue of MTC Turf News. Copyright Š 2016 by the Maryland Turfgrass Council. MTC Turf News is published quarterly. Presorted standard postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: MTC allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to MTC. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information.

Advertising: For advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

WINTER 2016

25

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

January 11–13

January 30 – February 2

February 20–23

Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show (MANTS)

Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Conference & Tradeshow

TPI International Education Conference & Field Day

Baltimore Convention Center Baltimore, MD

(a joint conference between the Maryland Turfgrass Council and Virginia Turfgrass Council) Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA

(Turfgrass Producers Intl.)

Saddlebrook Resort Tampa, Florida

January 24–27 STMA Conference and Exhibition Orlando, FL

February 4–9 Golf Industry Show Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

July 19–22 TPI Summer Program (In conjunction with the 2017 International Turfgrass Research Conference) The Heldrich New Brunswick, NJ

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND TURFGRASS TEAM

Pete Dernoeden, Ph.D.

Mark Carroll, Ph.D.

Joseph Roberts, Ph.D.

Professor Emeritus University of Maryland College Park, MD 301-405-1337 • pd@umd.edu

Dept. of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture University of Maryland College Park, MD 301-405-1339 • mcarroll@umd.edu

Dept. of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture College Park, MD 301-405-4355 • robertsj@umd.edu

Tom Turner, Ph.D. Dept. of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture University of Maryland College Park, MD 301-403-4431 • tturner@umd.edu

Dave Funk Kevin Mathias, Ph.D. Institute of Applied Ag. University of Maryland College Park, MD 301-405-4692 • jkm@umd.edu

DIGITAL MARKETPLACE Download your favorite QR reader to your phone and scan the code to learn more about these companies.

26

MTC TURF NEWS

Manager, Paint Branch Turfgrass Research Facility University of Maryland College Park, MD 301-403-8195 • dfunk@umd.edu