TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026 GOLF & FINE TURF DAY Hort Farm 2, North Brunswick, NJ
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2026 LAWN, LANDSCAPE, SPORTS FIELD DAY & SFMANJ TRADE SHOW & EQUIPMENT DEMOS Adelphia Farm, Freehold, NJ
Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science www.turf.rutgers.edu • (848) 932-6396
Jersey Turfgrass Association www.njturfgrass.org • (973) 812-6467
Field Managers Association of New Jersey www.sfmanj.org • (856) 514-3179 Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey www.gcsanj.org • (973) 812-0710
jdevaney@storrtractor.com andydonelson@turf-equipment.comToro Grounds Equipment and Irrigation
SYNGENTA [Page 19]
Chris Marra 8 Highview Avenue, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927 Cell: (862) 505-4319 Christopher.Marra@syngenta.com
It’s hard to believe that we’re already in June. This year seems to be flying by, and before we know it, we’ll be heading into the heart of another busy summer season.
First, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Board Members and Rutgers faculty who were involved in organizing and hosting another outstanding Rutgers Golf Classic. There is far more that goes on behind the scenes than most people realize to make this event a success. The countless hours of planning, coordination, and volunteer effort are truly appreciated.
The Rutgers Golf Classic has often been described as arguably the ‘largest Green Industry fundraiser in the universe’, and this year’s event once again lived up to that reputation. The proceeds generated help support research, education, and scholarships that directly benefit our industry for years to come.
I would also like to thank all of our sponsors for their generous support and contributions. Without their participation and commitment, this event simply would not be possible. The NJTA is fortunate to have such dedicated industry partners who continue to invest in the future of turfgrass education and research.
Looking ahead, we have another can’t-miss event right around the corner—the 2026 Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days. These annual events provide an excellent opportunity to see the latest turfgrass research firsthand, learn from leading researchers and industry experts, and network with fellow professionals from across the region
Whether your focus is golf, sports turf, lawn care, landscape management, or grounds maintenance, there will be valuable educational opportunities for everyone. I encourage you to mark your calendars and reserve your spot today.
Additional information and registration details can be found on the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Events Page -- http://www.njturfgrass.org
Thank you for your continued support of the NJTA. I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Field Days and other association events throughout the summer.
Sincerely,
Mike Reed President New Jersey Turfgrass
Association
From Your President: MICHAEL REED
2026 Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days
Day 1: Golf and Fine Turf
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Hort Farm 2, North Brunswick, NJ
Day 2: Lawn, Landscape, and Sports Turf
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Adelphia Farm, Freehold, NJ
NJTA’s Mission & Purpose
New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s MISSION is to promote the Turfgrass Industry and enhance the environment through education, professionalism, leadership, and our partnership with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Our PURPOSE is to gather together all the turf interest in the State of New Jersey into a cooperative group for the collection, preservation, and dissemination of information pertinent to the development and maintenance of turfgrass areas.
Your Executive Director Shares Angela Adamchak
It is an absolute honor to step into the role of Executive Director of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association. Having worked alongside Cece Peabody for the last 18 years, I have witnessed many of the ways that this Association has made a difference in the “Garden State” of New Jersey. I am incredibly excited to officially join the team.
Transitions and change make one wonder what comes next. It is my goal to continue to promote the best interests of our members from our Golf Superintendents, Sports Field Managers, Lawn Care Professionals, Sod Growers and our Manufacturers and Suppliers.
Over the next coming months, I intend to listen. I want to hear what is working well, if and where you need more support, and how the NJTA can better serve you, our members.
I sincerely thank you for the warm welcome I have already received. I look forward to meeting many of you at our upcoming events and working together to help make this next chapter a continued success.
Please join us at the Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days, July 28th and July 29th – you will have the unique opportunity to walk the plots side-by-side with leading Rutgers faculty, graduate researchers and your industry peers.
A Little About Myself…
Beyond my professional life, my greatest joy and source of pride is my family. I have been married to my husband, Erik, for 31 years, and I am the proud mother of three wonderful adult children who keep life exciting, even from afar.
My eldest daughter, Brooke (29), lives in Fairfax, Virginia, where she works as a successful leasing consultant. My youngest daughter, Sarah (27), is right here in New Jersey, residing in Cape May Court House and working as a dedicated Registered Dietitian, and my son, Colin (25), lives in Orlando, Florida, where he applies his talents as a project analyst. Watching them grow into their careers and lives brings me immense happiness.
When I am not focusing on NJTA business or catching up with my kids, you can usually find me enjoying my favorite hobbies. I love staying active with long walks, unwinding on the beach, or getting lost in a good book.
CONGRATULATIONS RECOGNITION AWARD
This award will be presented to GEORGE ZIEMIENSKI Rutgers University Research Farm Manager Adelphia Farm, Freehold at the
Lawn, Landscape, and Sports Field Field Day on Wednesday, July 29.
This award is presented in recognition of outstanding effort and accomplishment in pursuit of better turf, thereby contributing to the beautification of facilities, a greener world, and a more attractive environment.
We hope you will join us to celebrate George!
L to R: Colin, Brooke, Sarah, Angela, Erik
Rutgers Turfgrass GOLF CLASSIC Sets Records!
30th Anniversary
I am sure that we have all heard that “if we build it they will come.” These words were the basis of an old movie about baseball but for the last 30 years these words would actually describe The Rutgers Turfgrass Research Classic. According to Dave McGhee, who was the superintendent at Fiddler’s Elbow and then became the General Manager at Fiddler’s Elbow and was the host when a meeting was held to discuss starting a fundraising golf event to raise funds to support the Rutgers Turfgrass Program, he said that several of the people in the meeting were very skeptical of this succeeding. Most likely they were concerned with the suggested price to participate. Dave and several others in the meeting decided that this was going to be a first class event and that would require doing things that would cost more than a normal meeting. It turns out that they were correct and every Classic has continued to be a first class event.
Dr. Murphy made his brief announcements, the pro shop explained the rules and soon the carts headed out to the courses. The carts going to the Forest Course start heading out first because it is quite a distance to get to the course. Once everyone arrived at their holes, play began quickly and it soon became evident that the courses were in magnificent shape. Everyone takes the opportunity to stop and enjoy lunch at the stations on each course. Every player that I have ever spoken to agrees that no matter if it is a hot dog, a hamburger, or a chicken breast they choose, the quality of the food is great and everything tastes better on a grill. In addition to lunch everyone enjoys meeting one of the professors during their round. Drs. Clarke, Koppenhofer and Rossi greeted the players and in some cases helped make some putts, but they are mostly there so people can put a face with a name and can ask questions to people who will have answers.
Fast forward to 2026. It is the year that the Classic turned 30 years old and it continues to lead the world in attendance and sponsorship dollars as it gets larger every year. Fiddler’s has 54 holes of championship golf. Of those 54 holes only two tees did not have two groups starting on them. The accepted top number of golfers for 54 holes is 432. We had 424 and we had to turn away groups because we weren’t sure if one group that had paid but hadn’t responded to requests for their player names would attend and we also needed to have a place to give some of the Rutgers turfgrass students who had volunteered at registration a place to play if they weren’t able to join teams that needed players.
Registration went wonderfully and we never had a line of vehicles waiting to register. The attendees passed through and many enjoyed the great hot breakfast offered. That breakfast is much better than what you would find at a restaurant. Everyone meets at their carts at 10:45 for an 11:00 shotgun.
One of the things that made the day so special was the weather. I don’t remember a better day of great weather and everyone that I spoke to agreed. It was a magical day where nothing went wrong.
At the Grand Reception the club continued to offer something for everyone including the historically awesome choices of different pizzas. That alone probably would be all that some people would want, but there are always vast quantities of choices of appetizers, salads, seafood, beef, poultry, mexican chips and dips. The amount of food is very impressive and they never run out of anything.
The awards and announcements started a little late because Mike Reed, who is the president of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association, needed to get everyone’s attention to acknowledge the retirement of Cece Peabody who has been its Executive Director for 19 years.
This was Cece’s official retirement date although she calls it a re-wirement. She received a standing ovation because most of the people in attendance knew that she has been the force behind the Classic and Expo. She will be truly missed but she won’t be forgotten. Angela Adamchak has worked with Cece for 17 years and she absolutely will continue Cece’s great work.
Dr. Jim Murphy and Dr. Stacy Bonos acknowledged and thanked our sponsors and all of the individuals from the staff at Fiddler’s who were responsible for the great success of the event and for making everyone feel like members. Jim also introduced Dr. Josh Kohut, who is his boss. Dr. Kohut is the SFBS Dean of Research/NJAES Director of Research and is very much involved in making sure the turfgrass program continues to lead the nation. We are in very good hands.
Co-Chairmen Jason Osterhoudt and Donovan Maguigan handled the task of announcing the winners of competitions and they handed out the prizes. Jason has spent many years on the board of the NJTA and served two years as president and is currently president of the NJTA Foundation. Donovan seems to be involved in everything. He served on the GCSANJ BOD and was president for three years. He continues after many years as the editor for the GCSANJ’ s newsletter. He seems to write half the articles. I don’t know where he gets the time. Both these gentlemen, in conjunction with Angela, will make a great team. I am pretty sure that Cece and I will find a way to stay involved.
Thanks to everyone who supported the Classic in any way. You will see the list of our Premier, Eagle, Birdie and Par Sponsors on the right and there are too many people to thank in this wrap up, but we couldn’t do it without everyone. You will also see the list of winners but I am sure everyone who played or who just attended the Grand Reception will know they also were winners. We already have one person commit to bringing a team and donating to the Silent Auction next year because he wasn’t able to register before we had to turn people away this year.
• Brett Young Seeds • Harrell’s • Helena * Lebanon Turf • Nufarm • SynaTek Solutions • Syngenta • The Andersons Reed & Perrine • USGA Green Section
BIRDIE
• Finch Turf • GCSANJ Assn & Fdtn • NJTA Assn & Fdtn • Paige Electric • Plant Food Company
• Rutgers, Center for Turfgrass Science • Scotts Miracle-Gro • Specialty Turf & Robotics
PAR
• Albaugh Specialty Productss • A-LIST
• All Pro Horticulture • Aquatrols Company
• Barenbrug USA • Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
• Corteva AgriScience • Double ‘D’ Turf • Downes Tree Service • EarthWorks • East Coast Sod & Seed • Ferti Technologies • GO Seed • Green Lawn Fertilizing • Harrington Construction • Dr. Bill & Jane Meyer • NJ Landscape Contractors Assn • Pennington Seed • Redox Bio-Nutrients • Sacks & Associates • The Toro Company • Tri-State Turf Research Fdtn • TruGreen Companies • Tuckahoe Turf Farms
HOLE
007XL Bentgrasses/Dr. Rich Hurley
• Blue Mt. Seeds • Blooming Beds • Brookrest Sod Farms • Ceres Turf • Columbia Seeds • Cultivated Sod Assn of NJ • Liberty Sod Farm • MET GCSA
• Oregon Fine and Tall Fescue Commissions
• Senator Declan O’Scanlon • Turf Merchants
LUNCH ON THE COURSE
New Jersey PGA
SAVE THE DATE! 2027 Golf Classic event will be on Monday, May 3rd.
Congratulations to all our winners!
Thanks for helping us celebrate our 30th Anniversary Golf Classic!
Rutgers Turfgrass Symposium: 35th Annual
The 35th Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Symposium marks another successful year for the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science! The Symposium provided an outstanding opportunity for Rutgers faculty, staff, and students to discuss their current research and share ideas across a broad range of turfgrass science topics. Attendees were welcomed with opening remarks from Dr. Josh Kohut, Dean/Director of Research at SEBS/NJAES. The keynote speaker (and Rutgers alumnus), Dr. Eric Watkins (Department of Horticulture, University of Minnesota), presented a seminar on ‘Investigating New Strategies for Turfgrass Survival in a Changing Winter Climate.’ This exciting project applies innovative tools to understand the unpredictable effects of winter stress on turfgrass systems. The Center was also fortunate to have other invited speakers present at the Symposium. Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis (Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University) summarized 14 years of collaborative warm-season turfgrass breeding. Dr. Lisa Beirn (Syngenta Corporation and another Rutgers alumna) described a quarter century of innovation in plant protection. And Dr. James Brosnan (Department of Plant Sciences: Turfgrass Science and Management, University of Tennessee) discussed solutions to the everchanging problem of Poa annua control in turfgrass.
Attendees also experienced the breadth of research conducted by faculty, post-doctoral associates, and graduate students at the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science. Dr. Stephanie Rossi discussed early detection of heat and drought in creeping bentgrass. Mark LaBarge presented results from his research on bermudagrass and zoysiagrass fairway turf. Dr. Juan Gonzalez presented his research on high-volume turfgrass monitoring using drones. Ryan Earp – recipient of the Sean M. Pattwell Award – described his experience at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort during the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship. Leandro Lopes da Silva discussed his research on SDHI fungicide resistance in Clarireedia jacksonii (the dollar spot pathogen). Dr. Matthew Brown presented research on the interactions among entomopathogenic nematodes, fungicides, silicon, and plant hosts. Katie Diehl Tuck described the effects of plant growth regulators on goosegrass and cool-season turfgrass.
Dr. James A. Murphy Director, Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science
Three graduate students were also acknowledged at the symposium for their award-winning research presentations at the Crop Science Society of America Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, UT.
Ryan Earp won first place in the Turfgrass Breeding, Genomics, Physiology, and Molecular Biology poster session.
Devan Gladden won second place in the Turfgrass Water Conservation poster session.
And Emmanuel Nwachukwu won third place in the Golf Turf Management and Remote Sensing poster session in the Turfgrass (C5) Division of the Crop Science Society of America.
In 2022, with the generosity of Mr. Sean Pattwell, an internship for graduate students studying turfgrass science was initiated. Mr. Pattwell has graciously committed support through 2027. Mr. Ryan Earp was the fourth recipient of the Sean S. Pattwell Graduate Student Internship. Mr. Earp completed a three-week internship at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Bandon, Oregon.
Thanks to the Symposium Planning Committee of Drs. Bingru Huang (Chair), Jim Murphy, Stacy Bonos, Ning Zhang, and Ming-Yi Chou, along with Ms. Barbara Fitzgerald and Kelly Esposito (Co-Editors of the Symposium Proceedings), for putting together a fantastic symposium. We also appreciate the technical support of Mr. Bernard Ward, Mr. Phil Wisneski, and Mr. Brad Park for their help with live streaming, website postings, and audio-visual technologies.
Finally, the Center is grateful for the wonderful partnership with the turfgrass industry in New Jersey and beyond, which enables us to delve into these exciting topics in turfgrass science!
Dr. Bingru Huang, Rutgers
Dr. Leandro Lopes Da Silva, Ryan Earp.
Dr.Lisa Beirn, Syngenta
Dr. Ming-Yi Chou, Rutgers
Dr. Bruce Clarke, Rutgers (l)
Dr. Eric Watkins, Univ of MN (r)
Dr. Josh Kohut, Rutgers Director of Research, NJAES
RUTGERS SYMPOSIUM PHOTOS 2026
Right:
Dr. Bingru Huang
Dr. Patrick Burgess
Above L to R:
L to R:
Dr. Stephanie Rossi, Rutgers
Mark LaBarge, Rutgers
Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis (NC State Univ
Dr. Bingru Huang
Dr. Jim Brosnan (Univ TN-Knoxville),
Dr. Matt Brown
Dr. Matt Elmore, Rutgers
Katharine Diehl Tuck
L to R:
Dr. Juan Gonzalez
Dr. Eric Watkins (Univ MN)
Dr. Stacy Bonos
Pictures courtesy of Shaun Barry, NJTA Director
Dr.
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Dr. Ming-Yi Chou, Rutgers (l)
Jim Murphy, Rutgers (r)
RUTGERS RESEARCH FIELD DAYS 2026
Craig Tolley, NJTA Director,
The plans are set, and the research farms are ready for the Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days.
Mark your calendar for this year’s field days to be held on July 28th and 29th. Both events will be returning to their traditional locations -- Golf and Fine Turf Day will be at the Hort Farm II, New Brunswick, and Lawn, Landscape, and Sports Field Day will be held at the Adelphia Research Farm, Freehold. Each day will be full of opportunities to further one’s knowledge by observing and learning about the latest developments in turfgrass research.
Both days will be full of excellent and extensive opportunities for research updates, availability of Rutgers professors, and demonstrations of new maintenance equipment. Each day begins at 7:30 AM. The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation will be holding a silent auction each day, so be sure to check out this opportunity to support the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation and find unique items to buy.
Tuesday will start with the traditional Core session. Spanish ProFACT training and examination will also be offered. (pre-registration is required).
Wednesday will begin with Sport Field Managers Association of New Jersey’s annual trade show. Optional Core pesticide training will be held after lunch. The Rutgers turfgrass breeding team will be highlighting several of their projects working with bentgrass on Tuesday at the New Brunswick farm. Attendees will
be able to see the most current developments of their work developing bentgrasses with improved shade tolerance. The turfgrass breeders will also be displaying the progress of the bentgrass breeding trails under fairway and putting green conditions. Several sustainability studies will also be included in the research plots as well.
• Dr. Ming-Yi Chou has been investigating the use of non-synthetic fungicides for suppression of Dollar Spot.
• Dr. Jim Murphy is working on a project to increase diversity of sod production through sustainable practices.
• Dr. Albrecht Koppenhöfer is looking to optimize the efficacy of synthetic and biological insecticides through interactions with fungicides.
• Dr. Matt Elmore will be discussing studies of weed control, long-term control of yellow nutsedge, and false-green kyllinga. There is also a study evaluating the effects of root zone pH on the competitiveness of bentgrass with annual bluegrass.
Wednesday at the Adelphia Research Farm will be a very full day. The breeding team will be back, with multiple studies. The 2022 NTEP Perennial Ryegrass test will be highlighted, with attention to breeding for Gray Leaf Spot tolerance. There will also be a stop looking at the performance of warm season turfgrasses in New Jersey. There will be a stop to visit the 2024 Tall Fescue trial to see the progress on breeding for diseases resistance in this species.
Dr. Matt Elmore and the turfgrass weed science team have several projects at the Adelphia Research Farm. They will be providing updates on their work with yellow nutsedge control, both preemergent and post-emergent options. Crabgrass control is being studied at this location as well as a study evaluating the control of perennial grassy weeds.
Continued on page 23
2026 Rutgers Turfgrass Research FIELD DAYS
Early Registration Form ONLY. Return by Wednesday, 7/15/26 or Register On-Site.
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
GOLF & FINE TURF DAY
Hort Farm 2, 102 Ryders Lane, North Brunswick NJ 08902
Meet the Rutgers Experts
• Bluegrass, Bentgrasses, Putting Green and Fairway Trials
• Best Management Strategies for diseases, weeds, insects
DIRECTIONS to Farms on website - www.njturfgrass.org
Both Days are held rain or shine.
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY
7:30 AM Registration Opens SILENT AUCTION Opens
8:00 – 8:30 AM [OPTIONAL] CORE SESSION Pesticide Compliance & Enforcement - Mike Reed,SynaTek
Pesticide Credits & NJ ProFACT Awarded at end of Event
TRADE SHOW & EQUIPMENT DEMOS Sponsored by SFMANJ (Sports Field Managers Assoc. of NJ)
Meet the Rutgers Experts
• Best Management Practices for Weed Control
Shade & Full Sun Cool-Season Turfgrass Research
• Warm-Season Turfgrasses in New Jersey
• The Latest Sports Field & Grounds Products
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY
1:00 – 2:00 PM Lunch & SILENT AUCTION Ends
2:00 PM
PESTICIDE & PROFACT CREDIT FORMS 8:00 AM
10:00 AM -12:00 PM: Basic Training for the Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certification in SPANISH ONLY - 3 Credits - Dr. Raul Cabrera 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Fertilizer Exam in SPANISH ONLY ($90) Registration Required
& SILENT AUCTION Ends
FIELD DAY Ends (Unless staying for below)
IPM vs. Calendar Spraying: Smarter Pest Management in Modern Applications Mike Reed,SynaTek
Examine the evolution from traditional calendar-based pesticide applications to modern IPM decision making. Explore how monitoring, thresholds, label compliance, environmental stewardship, resistance management, and documentation improve both application effectiveness and regulatory compliance.
Use Registration Form or Register Online at www.njturfgrass.org
2026 EARLY REGISTRATION FORM
RUTGERS TURFGRASS RESEARCH FIELD DAYS
NJTA MEMBERSHIP -
Today and Pay MEMBER RATE
EARLY REGISTRATION FEES
2026 Rutgers Turfgrass Research FIELD DAYS SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 & Wednesday, July 29, 2026
This event is Hosted by the New Jersey Turfgrass Association (NJTA)
At the country’s finest and most respected Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days, Rutgers, Center for Turfgrass Science professionals will share the latest research with turfgrass managers and green industry professionals We invite you to partner with NJTA and become a SPONSOR. Tracy Wadhams, NJTA Director and Field Days Chair SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
Complimentary Registrations Included with Sponsor Levels. SEND YOUR COMPANY LOGO TO: execdirector@njturfgrass.org
EIGHT (8) Complimentary Registrations each day
• Logo/Name in eblasts • Company logo/Name on Blade Banner, Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition • Sponsor Badge
FIVE (5)
in eblasts
Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition
1150 THREE (3) Complimentary Registrations each day • Company Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition
$ 850 TWO (2) Complimentary Registrations each day. • Company Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition
• TENT Thanks! Rutgers, OCPE [Office of Continuing Professional Education]
Yes, sign us up as a 2026 FIELD DAY SPONSOR! c Please Invoice c Payment Info Below Date__________________Company___________________________________________Contact
TUESDAY ATTENDEES WEDNESDAY ATTENDEES
Thanks to our 2025 SPONSORS • Aquatrols Company • BASF • Brett-Young Seeds • Ceres Turf • Colorblends Wholesale Flowerbulbs • Columbia River Seed • Coombs Sod Farms • Corteva Agriscience • Envu • Fertl-Soil • Finch Turf • Grass Roots • Harrell’s • Helena • Mountain View Seeds • Nufarm • PBI Gordon • Plant Food Company • Sam’s Club • SiteOne Landscape • Stephen Kay, GC Architect • Storr Tractor Company • Synatek • Syngenta • Tuckahoe Turf Farms • Mid-Atlantic Golf Cars of NJ
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Pictures courtesy of Matt Sweatlock, NJTA Director.
2026 GOLF CLASSIC
Pictures courtesy of Matt Sweatlock, NJTA Director.
A NEW CLASS OF CHEMISTRY IS IN SESSION
Enroll the help of Atexzo® insecticide to expel destructive insects, thanks to PLINAZOLIN® technology and a new mode of action for turf in IRAC Group 30. Learn more at GreenCastOnline.com/Atexzo or contact: Chris Marra | christopher.marra@syngenta.com | 862-505-4319 Doug Rider | doug.rider@syngenta.com | 215-260-9137
Richard Buckley, Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
Boxwood are favorites in many landscapes. Boxwood are versatile and fill multiple design needs with many shapes, sizes, and growth rates. They are easy to maintain requiring little pruning and almost no irrigation. Many cultivars grow in both shade and sun. They are long-lived and offer permanence in the landscape. And they are deer resistant. Due to their versatility, boxwood is extensively used in New Jersey landscapes. The downside is that they have several common problems that make them the most common landscape plant submitted to the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. By no means is this an exhaustive list, and we’ve left off real killers like boxwood blight and the “not yet in Jersey” box tree moth, but here are a few of the most common boxwood issues we see in the lab.
The fungus Pseudonectria follicola, the cause of Volutella leaf and stem blight, is the most common boxwood problem we see in the lab. Pseudonectria is a weak pathogen that attacks stressed, dead, or dying boxwood. Temperature and moisture stresses—boxwood suffers readily from heat, cold, and wet feet—are the usual predisposing factors for the disease, but anything that causes plant stress can lead to an infection. Volutella leaf and stem blight causes a tan leaf blight and dead branches. Infected leaves remain on the plant where the fungus produces minute orange sporodochia (fruiting bodies) and millions of conidia (asexual spores) that will perpetuate the disease within the planting.
Boxwood leafminer, Monarthropalpus flavus, is another problem regularly found on boxwood samples. Boxwood leafminer is a tiny, orange fly that lays eggs in the new foliage in the spring. The eggs hatch and the larvae mine the tissues between the epidermis, which causes swollen blotches on infested leaves. The larvae remain in the leaves until the following spring when they pupate and emerge as tiny, orange, mosquitolike adult flies. Listen to the plants during warm days in mid-spring to hear active larvae feeding in the blistered leaves. Adult leafminers do not have mouthparts, so the larvae chew little windows in the leaves before pupating. Emerging
Boxwood leafminer adults and damage. Note the emergence windows! Photo: Sabrina Tirpak, NJAES
Boxwood mites, Eurytetranychus buxi, are cool season spider mites that are most active during the spring and fall. These mites are found to some degree on almost every boxwood sample we receive. Boxwood mite feeding causes minute “scratches” on the foliage called stipple. Large populations will take the color out of the leaves and heavy feeding can lead to defoliation and thin canopies. Historically, boxwoods were treated with neonicotinoid insecticides (acetamiprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, or imidacloprid) for leafminer control. These materials do not kill mites, which often leads to secondary outbreaks of boxwood mites, which is responsible for the large number of samples we see with boxwood mite injury. Be aware that neonicotinoid materials are now
Volutella leaf and stem blight. Photo: Richard Buckley, NJAES
My Love/Hate Relationship with BOXWOOD!
Boxwood psyllid, Psylla buxi, is another very common issue with boxwoods coming into our lab. This insect will cup and curl the new leaves, but has little impact on plant health. The best
So, what are we to do? All disease and insect pest programs start with good plant selection and proper site preparation. There are nearly 150 varieties of boxwood, so selecting disease and insect resistant cultivars is a great starting point. Furthermore, choose cultivars that are suited to the planting site and management level required on the site. Maintain the plants with sound culture, so they can resist or tolerate the pests and pathogens. There are many online resources
Continued from page 20
for boxwood cultivar selection and care.
Of particular note, boxwood is very drought tolerant once established, so irrigate infrequently, and only to avoid heat, drought, and winter injury. Be very careful not to overwater the existing planting. Furthermore, boxwood is very shallow rooted, so be careful not to over-mulch the planting (2 inches or less is recommended). Lastly, boxwood readily suffers from nutritional problems, particularly micronutrients, so soil tests are important, and be sure to add micronutrients to the testing protocols.
Sanitation is essential for disease control. Early detection and proper pruning are the best control for Volutella leaf and stem blight. Prune and remove damaged plant material. Hand pruning is best rather than hedging, and if possible, remove any fallen leaves or lightly mulch over them. Pruning will also effectively remove psyllid-damaged leaf tips. Avoid overhead irrigation and wet foliage. Fungicides are not effective for the disease and are not recommended.
For leafminer, wait until the adults emerge and treat the new foliage with a contact insecticide— abamectin, carbaryl, spinosad, azadirachtin, or malathion. Abamectin will kill boxwood mite, boxwood leafminer, and boxwood psyllid, and is a very effective leafminer control if applied to the new foliage in the spring (May) when the adults are flying.
Insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil can be used to control boxwood mite. Thorough coverage, especially of the lower leaf surfaces, is important. The following materials are also labeled for mite control: abamectin, acephate, bifenzate, bifenthrin, dicrotophos, etoxazole, fluvalinate, hexythiazox, lambda-cyhalothrin, methiocarb, oxydemeton-methyl, pyridaben, spinosad, or spiromesifen. Spring and fall treatments are best.
Continued on next page...
Boxwood mite damage.
Photo: Sabrina Tirpak, NJAES
Boxwood psyllid damage.
Photo: Richard Buckley, NJAES
My Love/Hate Relationship with Boxwood
Richard
Buckley, Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Lab
The following insecticides can be used for psyllid control: abamectin, acephate, azadirachtin, bifenthrin, carbaryl, cyfluthrin, or deltamethrin. Make the treatments in April to mid-May.
The common denominator among the insect pests is abamectin. Abamectin will kill boxwood mite, boxwood leafminer, and boxwood psyllid, and is a very effective leafminer control if applied to the new foliage in the spring (May) when the adults are flying. Highly recommended!
Boxwood are favorites in many landscapes and a favorite plant in the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. Truly a plant I love to hate. I hate them because they have a myriad of insect pests and disease problems, but I love them because they have a myriad of insect pests and disease problems. Definitely a job security plant! Happy Planting!
RUTGERS RESEARCH FIELD DAYS
Continued from page 12
Wednesday will also include research trials using advanced technology. There will be a project utilizing remote sensing to evaluate wear tolerance and disease resistance in Kentucky Bluegrass. Along with the research trials, this day will include several product demonstrations allowing attendees to view some of the latest innovations and new tools available to turf managers.
Time to register early!
Registration is now open with an early bird registration discount. Bring your interns and students; we also offer a discounted rate for students and Rutgers Master Gardeners (identification will be required).
The pesticide recertification credits have been approved. Attendees will be able to receive pesticide credits for New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, GCSAA, New York, Connecticut and PROFACT credits (remember to include your license number and date of birth on the registration form if you want to earn credits).
The Field Day Committee would like to thank all our industry sponsors who help make this event possible.
SILENT AUCTION DONATIONS WELCOMED!
Gifts, Products, Golf, and other items to bid on. Contact the NJTA office to share your donation items.. Also, SA Donor form on our websitewww.njturfgrass.org
Happy Boxwood!
Photo: Diane Larson, RCE of Monmouth County
The Value of Attending Rutgers Turfgrass Field Days: A Superintendent’s Perspective
Donovan Maguigan - Secretary, New Jersey Turfgrass Association
Standing under the sweltering sun and late July humidity, I could feel the results of Dr. James Murphy’s research under my feet. We were all standing on one of the plots that illustrated a combination of topdressing timing and particle size on putting greens. Following years of watching presentations that emphasized turf quality and firmness from this practice, feeling the results and seeing it in person as opposed to on a power point screen, brought a new understanding of the research. My next thought was, this would be extremely helpful for my members, golf professional, or club board to see. Tangible results that bring the data from the page and into the real world. Throughout the rest of that warm afternoon, I would see more up-close tangible research in turf quality based on fertility, fungicide trials, cultivar comparisons, and active fungal diseases in the field.
As a golf course superintendent, the idea of leaving my golf course during the last week of July can be a tough challenge, especially if the heat and humidity are at their worst. During weather like that, taking a day away from the course is usually spent somewhere inside with plenty of air conditioning and cold beverages. However, that time of year is also the best time to showcase the active turfgrass research at Rutgers. It’s a prime time for turf stress, disease activity, insect pest tracking, and summer weed pressure. Across multiple plots at the farm, attendees will be exposed to a wealth of hands-on and visual results of those topics. There is no better place to experience all of this, with pesticide credits, than at the Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days.
In the years following my first Field Days, I have seen a number of excellent presentations about ongoing research at the farm, in addition to hearing from other superintendents who were in attendance. One year, I met my former mentor who was in attendance to review the bentgrass cultivars plots for an upcoming regrassing project. Other superintendents were at the farm to see turfgrass disease trials or herbicide effectiveness on summer annual weeds.
Most importantly, Field Days provides an opportunity for the great work being conducted at Rutgers to be shared with the turfgrass community. I repeatedly stress to people that we are incredibly lucky to have a high quality turfgrass research and education resource in the state of New Jersey. You are receiving relevant and updated information on turfgrass that is grown in the same climate and stress factors as most of the golf courses in the state.
This can also provide an opportunity for the attendees to share their feedback to the researchers as well. For example, in 2024, attendees were invited to provide their direct feedback on plots that were under high dollar spot disease pressure. Attendees were asked to rank their tolerance level for dollar spot in the plots by dropping popsicle sticks in corresponding buckets.
Lastly, on a fun note, there is ice cream which puts a nice chill on the peak summer heat. Food is provided under the shade of a large tent which also provides an excellent setting for discussing the summer with your peers. There is also the opportunity to support the turfgrass research community with purchasing items from the Silent Auction. If you are in need of pesticide credits for your license, options are available in both Core and special categories related to turfgrass.
Bring a broad brimmed hat, wear sunscreen, drink a lot of water, and come share the summer heat in support of Rutgers Turfgrass research.
At Envu, we know the key to better overall plant health starts well beneath the surface: at the roots. That’s why our treatment plans for greens always begin there with Resilia™ root health solution. Add Stressgard® brand fungicides to boost photosynthesis and Castlon™ fungicide for disease management and watch your greens and root system thrive all season long.
Huge Thank You to Our Silent Auction Supporters!
On May 4th, the NJTA hosted its annual silent auction during the Rutgers Golf Classic at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our donors, sponsors, and bidders, the event raised over $9,500 — all of which will directly support the Turfgrass Foundation!
Thank You to Our Generous Donors
This event would not have been possible without the incredible donations that filled our auction tables. We are deeply grateful to the following businesses, organizations, and individuals who contributed items and experiences:
Gift Donors: BASF, First Turf & Ornamental, Grass Roots, SynaTek Solutions, and Rob Shutte –Rutgers Head Golf Coach
Golf Foursomes: Essex Fells CC, Fiddler’s Elbow CC, Manufacturer’s Golf & CC, Metuchen Golf & CC, Roxiticus GC, Rutgers University GC, Spring Brook CC, Springdale GC, Stanton Ridge Golf & CC, and Watchung Valley GC
Also would like to recognize the Borgata Hotel & Casino for providing two get-away stays, and last but not least, Bobby Ross & Triple Crown Fundraising for providing the fantastic memorabilia and experience items we were able to bid on!
Volunteers and Staff
Behind every successful event is a dedicated team. I’m grateful to Shaun Barry, Jason Osterhoudt, and Donovan Maguigan for once again organizing the Golf Classic and assisting with donations, Cece Peabody and Angela Adamchak for their help organizing the Silent Auction, and all of the volunteers who gave their time and energy to make the event run smoothly — from setup to checkout and everything in between, thank you!
To Everyone Who Bid and Attended
Your enthusiasm and competitive bidding spirit made all the difference. Every bid placed helped us maximize the support we can provide for Rutgers Turfgrass Research. We are proud to have such a supportive community behind the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation.
Looking Ahead
Mark your calendars — we hope to see you again at Rutger’s Field Days, July 28 & 29. For more information about donating to the Silent Auction or to get involved helping organize, please contact me at rshinn@savatree.com or 609-819-6450. A donor form is on page 21 and can be downloaded from our website: www.njturfgrass.org.
With gratitude, Bob Shinn
NJTA Board Member & Silent Auction Chair
Are you Connected on NJTA’s Social Media?
Are you connected with
New Jersey Turfgrass Association
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Membership shall be open to all interested in the development and maintenance of turf. It shall represent all facets of the turf industry, including persons or organizations that grow or manage turf, or supply materials and services to the Green Industry.
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP •
• Reduced Registration Fees for F Green Expo & Field Days Registration fees
Members Directory & Addendum • Outreach & Education impact in Trenton • Support of Rutgers University’s Turf Research and turf programs • Marketing opportunities in NJTA publications • Participation in events that raise scholarships for the NJ Turfgrass Foundation
www.njturfgrass.org
Membership shall be open to all interested in the development and maintenance of turf. It shall represent all facets of the turf industry, including persons or organizations that grow or manage turf, or supply materials and services to the Green Industry. 39 Robin Hood Way • Wayne NJ 07470
Phone: 973.812.6467
Name # 3 Title
Company or Individual Address
Is this Address? Your Business Your Home City State Zip Cell Phone Email Fax
If Applicable: NJ Pesticide License # Date of Birth (DOB)
Name # 4 Title
Company or Individual Address
Is this Address? Your Business Your Home
If Applicable: NJ Pesticide License #
Date of Birth (DOB) Select PARTNER Category that Best Describes Your Business or Profession
o BUSINESS: Manufacturer/Supplier o TURFGRASS: Cemetery
o BUSINESS: Sod Producer
TURFGRASS: Parks and Recreation o TURFGRASS: Golf Course
o TURFGRASS: Landscape/Lawn Maintenance
TURFGRASS: Lawn Care Applicator
TURFGRASS: Architect o TURFGRASS: Irrigation Installation o TURFGRASS: Schools & Athletic Fields
HONORARY: Rutgers Professionals, Award Winner
on Card: Expiration Date: (MM/YY)
Address: 3 Digit Security Code:
Check By Mail: (Payable to NJTA)
Since 1970, New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s (NJTA) Mission is to promote the Turfgrass Industryand enhance the environment through education, professionalism, leadership, and our partnership with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.
Page 2 of 2 Updated 6/2/2026
JOIN ONLINE: www.njturfgrass.org - Click “Become a Member” New Jersey Turfgrass Association • 39 Robin Hood Way • Wayne NJ 07470 Phone: 973.812.6467 • www.njturfgrass.org • execdirector@njturfgrass.org
Mike Reed President SynaTek Solutions
2026 NJTA Board of Directors
Ryan Petitti Vice President Green Lawn Fertilizing
Jason Osterhoudt Past President Metuchen Golf & Country Club
Tracy Wadhams Field Days Chair Traywood LLC
Matt Sweatlock Treasurer Cedar Park Cemetery
Shaun Barry Golf Classic Chair
Zach Holm Director Central Park Conservancy
Donovan Maguigan Secretary Spingdale Golf Club
Marney Stauffer Director Corteva Agriscience
Craig Tolley Director County College of Morris
Chris Carson Green Expo Chair
Director Curti Group
“Volunteers
do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” – Elizabeth Andrew
Serving on the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association is very rewarding. We welcome you to become more involved by joining a committee for one of our events: Golf Classic, Field Days, Green Expo.
If you have interest or questions, reach out to any of our board members or our Executive Director. execdirector@njturfgrass.org
Garden State Landscapes
Dominick Capone
Aaron Kurdyla Director
Dr. James Murphy Advisor Rutgers University
Bob Shinn Director SavATree
Dr. Bill Errickson Director Rutgers Extension
Angela Adamchak Executive Director NJTA / NJTF
Dr. Karen Plumley Director Rutgers OCPE
2026 NJTA Board of Directors
• Michael Reed, President
• Ryan Petitti, Vice President
• Donovan Maguigan, Secretary
• Matt Sweatlock, Treasurer
• Angela Adamchak, Executive Director
• Jason Osterhoudt, Past President & NJTF Fdtn Pres
• Shaun Barry, Chair, Golf Classic
• Tracy Wadhams, Chair, Field Days
• Chris Carson, Chair, Green Expo
• Dominick Capone, Director
• Zachary Holm, Director
• Aaron Kurdyla, Director
• Bob Shinn, Director
• Marney Stauffer, Director
• Craig Tolley, Director
• Dr. Jim Murphy, Rutgers Advisor
• Dr. Bill Errickson, Rutgers Advisor
• Dr. Karen Plumley, Rutgers OCPE
Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
And Nematode Detection Service
Accurate and timely diagnoses of plant health problems:
♦ Disease and Insect Pest Diagnosis
♦ Plant and Weed Identification
♦ Insect Identification
♦ Fungus and Mold Identification
♦ Nematode Assay
♦ Virus Testing
♦ Fungal Endophyte Screening
♦ Pesticide Resistance Screening
♦ Other Services Available by Contract
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/plant-diagnostic-lab/ or email RUTGERSPDL@NJAES.RUTGERS.EDU or call 732-932-9140 for more details.
