Applied Research
Managing
Pesticide Resistance in Golf Course Turfgrass
By Kyle Miller, Senior Technical Specialist, BASF Professional Turf & Ornamentals
G
olf course superintendents are prudent stewards of proper pesticide use, but pesticide resistance can confuse even seasoned pros. While seemingly unpredictable, resistance is manageable once its principles are better grasped and preventative best practices are put in place. For superintendents, understanding resistance realities improves the health of turfgrass and maximizes pesticide investments.
growing in a suitable environment along with an infectious pest is likely to result in a disease infection. The triangle refers to disease, but its principle also explains weed and insect infestations. The “Disease Pyramid” expands on the “Disease Triangle” by adding environmental
Figure 1. The Disease Pyramid Host Plant
Pest pressure and resistance realities
Healthy turfgrass can be difficult to sustain for extended periods of time, even under the best conditions. The fact is, the threat of pests is ever-present. Pests, including diseases, weeds and insects, constantly threaten turfgrass. For example, the classic “Disease Triangle” illustrates how a host plant
and human-induced stresses, such as mowing height, altered fertility (excessive or lean) or plant growth regulator use, any of which can subject turfgrass to even more pest pressure. All of these factors play an integral part in managing pests and pest resistance.
Induced Stress – Human Influences Suitable Environment
26 | Virginia Turfgrass Journal November/December 2011 www.vaturf.org
Infectious Pest