iTurf Solutions Algae Algae damages turf in terms of aesthetics, competition, and via its mucilage excretions that seal surface which then leads to reduced infiltration and decreased atmospheric gas exchange. Anthracnose Anthracnose attacks grass plants (normally only Poa annua) when they are under environmental stress. The disease triggered by low nutrition and compaction leading to reduced turf vigour. Black Layer Black layer can have serious consequences on the health of turf. It is important to understand the causes of this problem and the methods used to control and prevent future occurrence. Chafer Grubs The adult Chafer will lay its eggs around June -July where they hatch and start feeding on the roots of the grass from July to late September. Dollar Spot Dollar Spot is triggered by: prolonged periods of leaf wetness moderately dry soil, humid with temperatures of 21-26°C; morning dews; low to deficient nitrogen (N) fertility, excessive thatch, frequent mowing. Drought Management The possibility of drought is increasing due to; access to quality water sources, cost of water, global warming & legislation. Earthworms Earthworms have an important role in helping to aerate soils, reducing compaction, improving water penetration and infiltration rates, processing organic matter and reducing thatch. Fairy Rings Although it is not always necessary or appropriate to control Fairy rings, they can be particularly troublesome on many different turf types. Fusarium Patch Fusarium Patch develops under various conditions: wet, humid, cool (0-15°C); high nitrogen (N) fertility in autumn and excessive thatch. Green Speed Cutting the greens lower or rolling can increase green speed. However, in the long-term these practices can encourage undesirable coarse grass species such as Poa annua, moss and algae. Leaf Spot Prevalent on Lolium spp, but can also be found on Festuca spp and Agrostis spp. Infected plants turn yellow and die as temperatures increase. Leatherjackets The Leatherjacket exists in the soil from the autumn to the following spring on the turf and roots, biting off stems at or just below ground level resulting in the turf dying back often in clumps. Moss Moss damages turf in terms of performance, aesthetics, and competition, creating vulnerability to wear and allow conditions for weed invasion. Over Seeding Over-seeding into an existing sward is a very competitive environment for the new seedlings to establish in. Red Thread Occurs mostly on turf where there is a low soil nitrogen level. Infected plants have light brown spots on the turf, which have a reddish appearance. Take-All Patch Take-All Patch is most commonly found on newly constructed sand based greens and primarily attacks Bent (Agrostis) grasses.