Author: Zac Reicher

Many of our pest problems in turf can be at least partially predicted through growing degree day models ( Poa annua seedheads is one example). Most of the models use a base temperature of 50 (abbreviated as GDD 50 ) assuming 50...

Now's the time to get the mower out of the shed and start mowing (depending on where you live in the state). This normally happens well before most of us start mowing because we see mostly brown leaf blades and...

I have received a number of calls recently about controlling quackgrass in turf. Quack is difficult to control because it spreads by deep rhizomes and herbicides do not translocate well through the rhizomes. The current best method is with 3-4...

If a preemergence herbicide is justified on your lawn to control crabgrass now, most of those are available combined with fertilizer and you are forced to apply a fertilizer now. Look for a product with low nitrogen and be sure...

Earthworm activity is on the rise as soils warm up, but their mounds will be highly visible until grass starts growing in late March and April. Earthworms are highly beneficial because they create channels for air and water penetration, reduce...

There are many, many formulations and combinations of preemergence herbicides available for the professional. Following are some suggestions for purchasing and using preemergence herbicides. Control from every preemergence herbicide can vary from year to year, or location to location. Therefore,...

There are literally thousands of fertilizers and fertilizer/pesticide combinations available to homeowners and professionals. Therefore, we can’t recommend how many pounds of a specific fertilizer to apply, but rather we must recommend fertilization rates in pounds of nitrogen per thousand...

If a preemergence herbicide is justified on a turf area, the timing of application is important. In theory, applying too early will expose the herbicide to soil microbes and processes in the soil that may break it down, allowing crabgrass...

On behalf of the Turf Program, Midwest Regional Turf Foundation (MRTF), Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association (INLA), and Indiana Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA), I’d like to thank everyone who helped with and/or attended the 2007 Indiana Green Expo on...

The IN-IL Turfgrass Short Course will be held in Willowbrook, IL, on Feb. 26-March 1. This is an outstanding course for new and experienced turf professionals. It’s designed for turf managers with some experience and an understanding of HOW we...

The IN-IL Turfgrass Short Course will be held in Willowbrook, IL, on Feb. 26-March 1. This is an outstanding course for new and experienced turf professionals. It’s designed for turf managers with some experience and an understanding of HOW we...

The Indiana Green Expo will be held Jan 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. The green Expo is a joint conference sponsored by the Midwest Regional Turf Foundation, the Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association as well as the...

Perennial ryegrass germinates quickly and provides quick cover and soil stabilization when used in a blend. However, too much perennial ryegrass leads to long-term problems from dollar spot, brown patch, red thread, and other diseases. Kentucky bluegrass has better disease,...

As mentioned in last months Turf Tip, the Office of the Indiana State Chemist has increased inspections of IN lawn care companies and golf courses. During 2004 through 2006, 31 golf courses were either warned or fined for violations in...

This is a one-day workshop that’s perfect for new-comers to the industry as well as more experienced professionals who want a refresher course on turf management. This is a perfect training opportunity for you or your staff from lawn care...

Mark your calendars for Nov 15-16 for MRTF’s Turf and Ornamental Seminar at the Daniel Center at Purdue. This course is an advanced for lawn care, golf course, sports turf, and sales staff. Enrollment is definitely limited to 70 attendees...

Since a discharge of golf course insecticide into the White River in August of 2003, the Office of the Indiana State Chemist has increased inspections of IN golf courses. During 2004 through 2006, 31 golf courses were either warned or...

With the incessant rain and high winds, most applications of broadleaf herbicides have been delayed. The good news is its not too late to apply. Nebraska research reported in 2002 showed 2,4-D and/or dicamba were far more effective in controlling...

The MRTF will be joining forces with the Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association as well as the Indiana Parks and Recreation Association to present the Indiana Green Expo on Jan 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center. Joining forces tremendously expands...

We are finishing up our nematode survey for 2006 and following is a summary of the results: • We processed a total of 163 samples from 26 golf courses across Indiana, Illinois, and northern Kentucky. • Ring nematodes were most...