Disease management strategies for controlling spring dead spot and frequency of occurrence of the causal organism Ophiosphaerella korrae on 'Tifway' bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon x C. transvaalensis)

Spring dead spot (SDS) is the most destructive disease of bermudagrass and symptoms appear as sunken, necrotic patches in the spring of the year. Studies were conducted on a bermudagrass fairway to determine the effect of soil temperature and frequency of occurrence of O. korrae in bermudagrass roots. Characterization of O. korrae isolates was based on growth temperature and pathogenicity studies. Management practices were evaluated for the reduction of SDS severity and thatch/mat layer, promotion of improved turf color, quality, and root health.;Ophiosphaerella korrae occurrence was greatest in the winter and spring. There was no direct association between soil temperature and frequency of O. korrae occurrence. Spring dead spot severity ratings were similar. Vertical mowing had a significant effect on fall turf color in 2005 and fall turf color and quality in 2006. Cultural practices were consistent for significantly reducing the thatch/mat layer and improving root health.