We did have some problems develop on our greens. We noticed that 4 and 5 developed a lot of yellow patches 2 day after a fungicide application. This was very puzzling because we had our spray program up to date. I sent a sample off to the University of Missouri and the results were quite alarming. Dr. Miller found Nematodes. Nematodes are a parasitic worm that feed off the root system of plants. A few will not hurt the plant it can out grow the feeding but if you have too many the root system begins to die and plant stresses. As the plant is in stress it is susceptible to disease and heat stress. This all happen right when the temperature rose above 90 degrees. After the diagnoses we treated all greens with a insecticide that controls Nematodes. Greens are making a come back they look much better than they did 10 days ago. This has been a year of first times for me. I have never had a problem with Nematodes in 30 years in the business. You can bet we will have Nematode control in next season spray program. (See pictures below).
Since the heat set in and # 4 and # 5 greens were invaded by Nematodes. We have done some cultural practices differently. We are now walk mowing greens 4, 5, 10-12. The height of cut has been raised on these greens. We are alternating mowing and rolling. This elevates a lot of stress to the greens. Fans have been set out on greens 10 and 12. The air movement help cool the greens. A 3 to 5 mph wind can make all the difference in a green surviving heat stress. These changes are temporary, we should be back to normal by September. Thanks for you patience.
# 5 Green July 20 Notice yellow spots
Close up # 5
# 5 green July 30
Nick walk mowing # 5
Pic of Nematode feeding on root. Nematode at top of root
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