Spring Dead Spot

Spring Dead Spot Update



Every year, with the onset of course green up, we encounter Spring Dead Spot or SDS as its called in the golf industry.  SDS is a turf disease that attacks the turf during the fall and is near impossible to detect. The timing of chemical applications seems to be critical in stopping the disease.  Without being to detect the problem then most chemical applications are needlessly wasted.  Also. the chemicals available are not cost effective when it comes to spraying acres of fairways. 

University professors have worked extensively to understand the problems associated with the onset of this disease.  One tactic, which we have employed for the past four years, is to apply at least one extra pound of potassium to the fairways in the fall.  This helps protect and invigorate the roots through the attack of the pathogen and helps build the plants resistance over the years.  Although we still contract the disease, it has become much less prevent throughout the course.