The disease is most common on low lying or poorly drained areas in the wet weather of spring and fall (temperatures 40 to 68 F). Symptoms include increased tillering, chlorosis (yellowing) of grass, and stunted roots. S. macrospora is not a fungus, but it is closely related to Pythium pathogens. If chemical treatment is required, fosetyl-Al or mefenoxam can be used according to label instructions. So what is in store for 2016? Plans for this season include studies on leaf spot diseases and pathogens while continuing research on snow
molds, snow scald and dollar spot. I am looking for volunteers to host management experiments and to help us collect pathogen isolates – particularly if you feel that you are experiencing fungicide resistance issues. As always, please feel free to contact me regarding your turfgrass pathology questions! Cited works: Roberts, J., J. Kerns, and D. Ritchie. 2015. Bacterial etiolation of creeping bentgrass as influenced by biostimulants and trinexapac-ethyl. Crop Protection. 72: 119
Dr. Orshinsky is a plant pathologist and Extension specialist at the University of Minnesota. Her turfgrass pathology research has focused on the molecular and physical interactions between dollar spot and turfgrass hosts, sensitivity of snow mold fungi to various fungicides, and reduction of the environmental impact of turf disease management. Page 53