Golf course maintenance presents a unique set of challenges, and one of the most common headaches for greenkeepers is the occurrence of Microdochium patch. This unsightly turfgrass disease can wreak havoc on golf course aesthetics and playability, especially during cool and wet weather. Traditionally, greenkeepers have turned to chemical fungicides to combat this issue, although there's a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach that's gaining traction: bio-control fungicides.
Several bio-control agents have shown promise in managing Microdochium patch. So far, only one has been registered as an effective solution in the UK. Harmonix Turf Defense utilises a patented strain of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (QST 713) which produce antifungal compounds that inhibit the growth of the disease-causing fungus. These compounds are produced during production and are in the bottle, so do not rely on specific application instructions, it is applied in the same way as other plant protection products. Bio-control agents offer a more environmentally friendly way to keep Microdochium patch at bay.
Application and Integration
To effectively utilise bio-control fungicides, greenkeepers should consider factors like timing, dosage, and compatibility with other turf management practices. An integrated pest management (IPM) approach is crucial, combining cultural practices such as moisture control, drainage and balanced nutrition alongside bio-control agents. By promoting overall turf health and performance, you create conditions less conducive to Microdochium patch.
Overall, greenkeepers should use bio-controls not as a direct replacement for traditional fungicides but as a tool to reduce overall usage of them and to further enhance the effectiveness of their disease management IPM programme.
Trial update
Trials conducted at Throws Farm Turf Technology Centre (Origin Amenity Solutions) in 2022/23 showed that by incorporating Harmonix Turf Defense in between fungicide applications, traditional fungicides could be halved (from six to three) with no significant difference in disease incidence compared to plots using fungicides alone (six applications).
The pictures above were taken in March 2023 and show a high level of disease in the untreated control (1 plot within a fully replicated trial). The middle picture shows the reduction in disease when using Harmonix Turf Defense alone every 14 days. The picture on the right shows the IPM using Harmonix Turf Defense alongside fungicides at intervals calculated using growth potential (3 x Harmonix Turf Defense – 3 x Fungicides).
If you would like to hear more about these trials, scan this QR code to watch our webinar.
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