You're struggling with turf health on your golf course. Which pests are causing the most damage?

1 Grub Menace

White grubs, the larvae of beetles, are notorious for damaging golf course turf. They feed on the roots of grass, causing the turf to brown and die. You'll often notice irregularly shaped patches of wilted or discolored grass, and the turf may feel spongy underfoot. If you can easily pull back a section of turf, like lifting a carpet, revealing white, C-shaped grubs, they are likely the culprits. Effective management involves monitoring for adult beetles and applying treatments at the right time to target the larvae.

4 Nematode Nuisance

Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and can cause significant damage to turf roots. Symptoms of nematode damage include thinning grass, slow growth, and areas that fail to recover from stress. These pests are challenging to detect because they're not visible to the naked eye. Soil testing is essential to confirm their presence and determine the appropriate management strategy, which may include using nematode-resistant grass varieties or applying nematicides.

5 Ant Aggravation

Ants can be more than just a nuisance on a golf course; they can cause real turf damage. Their nests create small mounds of soil that disrupt the smoothness of the playing surface. Furthermore, some ant species feed on the roots and shoots of grass, leading to weakened turf that is more susceptible to other pests and diseases. Effective ant management includes maintaining healthy turf and using baits or insecticides where necessary.

6 Goosegrass Gripes

Goosegrass is a weed, but it's as troublesome as any pest when it comes to maintaining a healthy golf course. This invasive plant competes with turfgrass for nutrients and water, leading to weak spots where pests can take hold. It's easily recognized by its white, star-shaped center and coarse texture. Managing goosegrass involves proper mowing practices, maintaining dense turf to prevent its establishment, and applying pre-emergent herbicides to control its spread.