WCTA Online

Phoma macrostoma: An update on the new turfgrass bioherbicide

K.L. Bailey (Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon) and S. Falk (The Scotts Company, Marysville, OH)

For several years, the fungus Phoma macrostoma has undergone extensive evaluation by Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada and The Scotts Company to see if a bioherbicide could be developed to control broadleaved weeds in turfgrass. In 2009, the summer issue of Sports Turf Manager reported on its discovery as a potential bioherbicide, and some of the research demonstrating its efficacy and crop safety.

Read more: Phoma macrostoma: An update on the new turfgrass bioherbicide

WCTA 2013 Turfgrass Research Update

“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.” — Henry Miller

from Jerry Rousseau

The importance of funding turfgrass research may never have been so obvious as pressure to sustainably provide optimum playing surfaces increasingly challenges professional sportsturf managers in every sector in every location.  Of course problems don’t typically go away by themselves and while manufacturers have a role to play in proving their products through research, independently funded projects and initiatives will always be a critical part of the process.

Read more: WCTA 2013 Turfgrass Research Update

WCTA 2012 Turfgrass Research Update

“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.” — Henry Miller

from Jerry Rousseau

Over the last few years, we’ve opted out of printing a separate turfgrass research report realizing a savings of close to $15,000 in that time.  It’s a smart move by the Board as we’ve seen a decline in dollars earmarked for research and it’s provided some time to figure out a new approach toward sourcing additional funding.

Read more: WCTA 2012 Turfgrass Research Update

WCTA Announces 2012 Research Project Funding

Current priorities for WCTA turfgrass research funding are as follows:

 Nutrient and fertility management, best management practices

 Soil and root-zone management, best management practices

 Evaluation of alternatives to pesticides

 Irrigation and water use issues (water quality and reducing water usage)

 Investigations into the biology, ecology and management of current and emerging pests

 Alternative cultivar and species for new turf construction, integration and conversion into existing turf areas

 Species/cultivar evaluation and improved management practices for areas of heavy traffic and wear tolerance

Read more: WCTA Announces 2012 Research Project Funding