GreenCast UK Articles

GreenCast web site upgrade

Mark Sanderson — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 21:01:43 GMT

Over the coming days (4 - 10 March 2010) the GreenCast website is being moved onto a new set of computers and operating systems. We will endeavour to ensure this causes minimal disruption to users. However, there may be periods during this time when the weather and disease forecasting systems may be out of action.

Some elements of the news and interactive Forums will be inaccessible during the switch-over. New users of GreenCast will not be able to register or gain full access to the site until the move is completed. We do apologise in advance, and trust you can come back to take a full part in the GreenCast community in the future.

The good news is that once the move has teken place, it creates the platform for a faster and more extensive GreenCast website that can continue to grow and offer new support services for proactive turf managers.

With best regards

The GreenCast website management team

Stick to contacts to preserve turf quality

Mark Sanderson — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:27:45 GMT

Severe winter weather has created tough conditions for turf, compounded by extra demand for extra matches now to make up for fixtures lost to snow and frost. The knock-on effect will inevitably be severe damage to playing surfaces already hit by Fusarium Patch and Snow Mould, and it could possibly still be four to six weeks before there is sufficient grass growth to make good repairs, warns Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson.

Difficult wet conditions forecast for the remainder of February and on into March offer little respite, with the GreenCast disease forecasting system predicting high Fusarium Patch risk that could further damage turf quality, with cold and persistently wet conditions in many areas proving ideal for Microdochium patch. For those areas still under snow, the development of snow mould will be a risk. Any disease scarring at this time will make turf more susceptible to wear and tear during play.

"This comes on top of peaks in disease pressure in mid-January, the end of January and throughout the first week of February," adds Dr Watson. "With so much disease pathogen present on most turf surfaces and existing lesions producing yet more spores, protecting clean leaves from further infection is crucial to preserve turf quality."

Since turf growth is still very slow or non-existent, he advocates an application of the powerful contact fungicide Daconil WeatherStik during periods of high risk of disease breaking out. "In the current conditions the WeatherStik formulation is a significant advantage," says Dr Watson. "It effectively bonds to the leaf surface within an hour and doesn't wash off. It means the maximum protection remains on the leaf and minimal environmental loss."

The GreenCast web site five-day spray window forecast warns that wind and the risk of spray drift is the major factor currently limiting spraying opportunities. However, the new Syngenta Foliar Turf Nozzles that give a significant reduction in drift could provide a solution to enable more spray days. Using the lowest permitted water volume will also enable sprayers to get around faster when conditions allow. The GreenCast spray window forecast also makes operators aware of frost that could affect early morning applications, when wind conditions are typically best.

STRI trials (pictured at the top of page) have shown that Daconil WeatherStik can provide the most consistent winter control of Fusarium Patch and, with reduced risk of further disease outbreaks, enable faster recovery of high turf quality in the spring. Trials results have shown an average 88% reduction in disease with Daconil WeatherStik, which held disease at an acceptable 3% or less. Turf quality was improved by over 40% with a Daconil WeatherStik programme, compared to just 5% improvement with iprodione treatments.

"One application now should provide sufficient protection to see turf through to spring growth," according to Dr Watson (left). "We can but hope that the old adage of 'In like a lion, out like a lamb' holds true for March this year, and enables swift turf recovery after a difficult winter."

Fundamentals of fungicide selection

Mark Sanderson — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 15:49:16 GMT

Understanding how fungicides work is paramount to getting the best value for your money from any application. The different modes of action of fungicides, or the way that they tackle disease within the plant, allow you to decide which product to use depending on the disease activity at the time of application, reports Dr Ruth Mann of STRI.

The action of the fungicide and the disease target is also important in deciding the optimum application technique to deliver the treatment where it is required.

Mode of action

The 'topical' mode of action concerns where on the grass plant the fungicide will remain after application:

CONTACTS, such as chlorothalonil (DACONIL WEATHER STIK) and fludioxonil (in INSTRATA), remain on the outside of the grass plant at the point of application, forming a shield to protect the leaf from pathogen attack. They will also help prevent the spread of disease, by preventing the pathogen moving to unaffected plants.

LOCALISED PENETRANTS, such as iprodione can move slightly from the point of application. For example, they may slightly penetrate into the grass leaf or move a short distance around the leaf surface.

SYSTEMICS, such as azoxystrobin (HERITAGE) and propiconazole (BANNER MAXX) can move from the point of application in the xylem (the part of the grass plant that water moves in). These are termed acropetal penetrants and, once absorbed by the leaf, move up through the plant and are redistributed in the leaf. Fungicides applied on the leaf continue to move over time, protecting new leaf as it grows.

It is worth noting that the reason azoxystrobin is effective against take-all is that it also absorbed by the roots and so can prevent growth of the pathogen where it is found in the plant.

The topical mode of action is important for which product will give you the best control depending on the immediate activity of the pathogen. For example, in a high risk situation, where the disease is present and possibly spreading, a fast acting contact fungicide may be most appropriate to immediately protect surrounding clean leaf.

For this reason an acropetal penetrant is likely to give its best results when applied during high-risk situations, but before the disease is observed and spreading. This gives time for the active to be taken up and redistributed within the leaf for much more effective control - preventing the pathogen from infecting the plants.

Biochemical action

The 'biochemical' mode of action concerns how the fungicide prevents or kills the pathogen:

MULTISITE fungicides, such as chlorothalonil and fludioxynil, affect more than one biochemical process within the pathogen.

SINGLE SITE fungicides, such as propiconazole and azoxystrobin affect one biochemical process within the pathogen.

This is important to understand in designing fungicide programmes to prevent resistance developing - which could result in a reduction in the optimal control provided by the available fungicides.

It is very difficult for the pathogen to overcome two or more biochemical processes at once, and so the risk of resistance developing is low for multisite fungicides. Remember that using products with multiple active ingredients from different chemical families acts in a similar way to using a multisite active ingredient, as the product supplies more than one biochemical mode of action.

However, alternating two different products with the same type of activity will not have the desired effect to fight fungicide resistance. For example, azoxystrobin is a strobilurin from the QoI class of fungicides, as are the actives pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin. Since they all affect the same biochemical pathway in fungi - fungal respiration at the Qo site - resistance to one of these actives will confer resistance to them all. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure these active ingredients are used within a planned resistance management programme that alternates products from different chemical groups, to prevent resistance occurring.

Click here to view the STRI table showing the biochemical modes of action of different turf fungicide actives.

Application timing

The third thing you need to consider is application timing.

PREVENTATIVE application is when weather conditions conducive to disease development have occurred and there is a high chance that spores will be active on the leaf, but before the pathogen has actually infected the grass plant. Preventative control stops the pathogen before there is any loss in turf quality. It also minimises the risk of further disease spread.

The challenge is to know when to apply preventatively, without wastefully applying when there was little or no disease risk - which is where the combination of good local knowledge and disease forecasting can prove so effective.

CURATIVE application occurs when the pathogen has germinated or just began to grow into the grass plant. Curative activity ends at the very first sign of disease. It should be remembered that in most cases this is the final timing for optimal control with most available turf fungicides.

Most curative fungicides also have preventative activity, so uninfected leaves treated at the same will also be kept clean.

ERADICANT application occurs when the disease is visible and probably spreading. In many instances this is mistakenly referred to as 'curative', but in effect the damage to turf quality has already been done. Most fungicides have only limited effect in curing disease pathogen at this stage, although they can stop its spread by protecting surrounding clean leaf from new infection. Although the fungicide may adequately control the pathogen, you need soil temperatures high enough to allow recovery from the infection. This is why some Fusarium (microdochium patch) scars remain all winter, even though the disease has been controlled.

Click here to download the comprehensive Syngenta Guide to Turfgrass Disease Management for further details and information.

Nozzle winners announced

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:57:11 GMT

Syngenta has announced the fifteen lucky winners who will each receive a free set of Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzles, incluiding Bill Mitchell of Perranporth Golf Club in Cornwall (above). Drawn from the large number of entrants to the competition held at BTME, the winners were:

Stephen Privett	Alresford Golf Club
John Bishop	Bray Golf Club
Daryll Slevewright	Complete Weed Control
Tom Carew	Craddocks Town Golf Club
Matthew James	Cumberwell Park Golf Club
Glenn Kirby	London Golf Club
Kevin Smith	Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club
Robin Greaves	Marlborough Golf Club
Marcus Dobson	Myerscough College
Bill Mitchell	Perranporth Golf Club
Stephen Curtis	Richmond Park Golf Club
Willie Redpath	St Andrews Links Trust
Jeff Mills	Taunton & Pickeridge Golf Club
David Moulds	Wembley Stadium
Nick Hargreaves	Woodhall Spa Golf Club

The winners have been notified by email and will be sent their nozzles.

We will be seeking feedback on their experiences to help other GreenCast members, and picking up any tips and advice on spraying techniques that can improve the timeliness and accuracy of applications.

You can make a comment or ask a question about the Syngenta Turf Nozzles, or any other application topic, on the new GreenCast Forums. Click here to visit the Forums now.

Heritage Maxx gains approval for Ireland

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:53:54 GMT

New Heritage Maxx from Syngenta is now approved for use in Ireland, just a month after gaining full approval for the UK and will be available for treatments starting in the spring. Heritage Maxx utilises a unique five-way action to target a magnificent seven turf diseases and protect turf quality.

Heritage Maxx features active recycling of its powerful fungicidal properties, providing disease protection that goes on cut after cut. Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson, believes it will be especially useful in Ireland and areas where continuous turf growth through the season can quickly reduce the efficacy of contact fungicides on the leaf.

It has been developed as a new liquid formulation specifically for turf, utilising the Syngenta Maxx formulation technology. The sub-micron particle size of the Maxx formulation can get into the leaf faster and move quicker to the site of any disease infection. As a result the level of disease control in trials has been outstanding - with faster effects and longer lasting results. The new liquid formulation is also easier to use than granules and mixes to a colourless spray mix that leaves no trace on turf after application.

Heritage Maxx has been approved for the broadest spectrum of turf diseases, with seven diseases on the label, including the most prevalent foliar disease, Fusarium Patch, the increasingly difficult to control Anthracnose, Leaf Spots common on winter sports pitches and Rusts that occur in wet warm periods on under fertilised turf. The unique root activity and uptake means Heritage Maxx is also approved for the two key soil-borne turf diseases, Take-All Patch and Type 2 Fairy Rings.

Heritage Maxx is distributed in the UK and Ireland by Scotts Professional.

Click here for further information and guidance on application and recommendations

Buy Syngenta Turf Nozzles and Art of Application tools here

Mark Sanderson — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:36:52 GMT

You can now buy the Syngenta Turf Nozzles and other Art of Application tools direct from Syngenta by calling:

0800 652 4215

Details of the Syngenta Art of Application tools and prices are as follows:

Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle

£60.00 per set of 12. P&P £2.50

Syngenta Turf

Soil Nozzle

£90.00 per set of 12. P&P £2.50

Syngenta Calibration Checker System

£24.00.

P&P £4.00

Syngenta Boom Height Indicators

£5.00 per pair.

P&P £2.00

Syngenta Art of Application DVD

£10.00.

P&P £2.00

Syngenta Art of Application Kit

Contains one set each of the Syngenta Turf Folliar Nozzle (12) and the Syngenta Turf Soil Nozzle (12), along with a Syngenta Calibration Checker System, pair of Boom Height Indicators, DVD and full instructions.

Saving £32 over the cost of individual components and delivery.

£170.00.

P&P £5.00

* All prices are subject to VAT. Credit card details required.

Nozzles are supplied with calibration and output charts, or download the information here.

The Calibration Checker System is supplied with directions for use, or download the information here.

To order call 0800 652 4215

New Syngenta Turf Nozzles launched at BTME

Mark Sanderson — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 20:17:08 GMT

New Syngenta Turf Nozzles launched at BTME 2010 have been specifically designed to improve the targeting of spray applications in turf and achieve better results for sprayer operators. The nozzles have been introduced as part of the Syngenta Art of Application initiative to help turf managers get the best possible results from their applications.

Drawing on the experience of Syngenta's dedicated Application Specialist, Tom Robinson, Syngenta has initially designed two nozzles - one for foliar applications that will deliver greater leaf coverage yet retain as much spray as possible on the plant, along with a high impact soil nozzle that effectively enhances penetration of the turf and improves the targeting of Heritage and Heritage Maxx sprays for soil borne diseases, such as Take-All and Fairy Ring.

Key benefits of the Syngenta Turf Nozzles include:

• Better targeting of sprays	• Faster operation
• Better results	• Reduce water volumes
• Reduce risk of drift	• Increase spraying opportunities

Syngenta Head of Golf & Landscape, Simon Elsworth, highlights that, whilst conventional flat fan nozzles can achieve a good result under perfect conditions, the new Syngenta Turf Nozzles can deliver more and increase the opportunities to get sprays applied at the optimum timing to get the best possible results.

Flat fan nozzles are inherrantly susceptible to drift (left), which has been largely overcome with the new Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle (right).

"Flat fan nozzles produce a wide range of droplet sizes, from small to large. Small droplets lack the velocity to reach the turf surface, and will be lost as spray drift and effectively wasted; in windy conditions the drift will be greatly increased. The large drops, however, will be moving so fast that they literally bounce off the leaf and roll away, especially at higher water volumes. In either case the efficacy of the treatment would be reduced and the risk of environmental loss increased," he said

"The new Syngenta Foliar Turf Nozzle is specifically designed to overcome these problems. It creates an even droplet size that virtually eliminates drift under standard spraying conditions. Furthermore, each droplet contains a built-in 'air bag', which effectively cushions the drop as it hits the leaf, so it spreads and covers the surface without rolling off. It produces around 75% more droplets per ml than a conventional bubble-jet low-drift nozzle."

The Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle (below, right) features a rearward facing spray angle, generated to counter the forward movement of the sprayer and give all better all-round coverage of the leaf surface. The nozzles have also been designed to work at lower water volumes than currently used on most golf courses. Instrata trials by STRI have shown the best disease control using the Foliar Turf Nozzles was achieved with an application rate of 250 l/ha.

A recent Syngenta survey of turf sprayer operators identified most turf managers are still operating with an average water volume of around 750 l/ha. Reducing the water volume to 250 l/ha means a golf courses with a 300 litre capacity sprayer could treat all their greens with one tank, compared to three fills when spraying at 750 l/ha. "The combination of faster operation and the dramatic reduction in drift can significantly increase spraying opportunities available to turf managers, so they can spray at more convenient times and when the application will give the best results," advises Mr Elsworth.

"STRI trials have shown that applying Heritage Maxx when there has been a period of disease risk, but before there is any visible signs of disease will achieve the best results in maintaining turf quality, with the least number of applications required over the course of the season. The new Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle could help ensure that application goes on at the ideal time." Mr Elsworth adds that the Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle could enhance performance of all treatments where foliar retention is the target, including fungicides and Primo Maxx growth regulator.

The second new Syngenta Turf Soil Nozzle (below) is designed specifically for soil applications - primarily Heritage, Heritage Maxx and Headway for Take-all and Fairy Ring control. The solid brass construction creates high-energy droplets for enhanced spray penetration and very low risk of drift.

The Syngenta Turf Soil Nozzle is intended to deliver equivalent product through to the soil surface from water volume of 550 l/ha, compared to over 1000 l/ha with conventional nozzles. The result is a significant increase in sprayer output and improved application timing. Surface aeration prior to application and a tank mix with a high quality wetting agent is still advocated to enhance soil uptake.

Both Syngenta Turf Nozzles are manufactured in the UK to fit conventional sprayer bayonet housings and simply replace existing nozzles.

The Syngenta Turf Nozzles are part of the Syngenta Art of Application Kit, which includes a turf dedicated Calibration Checker System, with a graduated cylinder, pre-marked with specified nozzle outputs. Sprayer operators who have pre-calibrated their sprayer can quickly use the cylinder to check nozzle output and confirm sprayer accuracy. Also in the kit are a pair of Syngenta Boom Height Indicators These are easily fitted onto each end of the sprayer boom and cut off as required, to give the operator a constant visual check that the boom is working at the correct height.

The Art of Application is a key component of the Syngenta GreenCast. The advanced local disease forecasting can help turf managers assess the risk of infection and time fungicide applications more effectively.

Additionally, to improve the skills and operation of sprayer operators, GreenCast features a series of training podcasts, an on-line application advice forum, practical sprayer calculators and a series of downloadable spraying record forms.

New Heritage Maxx launched at BTME

Syngenta — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 11:00:44 GMT

A new Syngenta fungicide with five-way action to target a magnificent seven turf diseases in the leaf and protect turf quality is now available for treatments starting in the spring. Heritage Maxx features active recycling of its powerful fungicidal properties, providing disease protection that goes on cut after cut.

Launched at BTME 2010 in Harrogate this week (19 January), Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson, highlighted that when a turf leaf is cut the sap rising through the plant carries the highly systemic fungicide to the site of the wound - which is the point most susceptible to disease attack. When any fungicide is then washed down the leaf, it is reabsorbed by the plant and recycled to offer renewed protection.

"Furthermore, the unique root uptake of Heritage Maxx means that any product that moves down into the root zone can still be taken up and used by the plant. In fact, the activity on soil-borne pathogens Take-All and Fairy Ring can be further enhanced by the recycling route. Other fungicides will be lost or wasted as soon as they hit the thatch or soil," he added.

New Heritage Maxx has been developed as a new liquid formulation specifically for turf, utilising the Syngenta Maxx formulation technology. The sub-micron particle size of the Maxx formulation can get into the leaf faster and move quicker to the site of any disease infection. Heritage Maxx particles are typically 10,000x smaller than conventional fungicide formulations, so over 1,000 particles can fit across the width of a single leaf stomata. The small size of turf leaf stomata can slow down other fungicides getting into the plant.

The faster uptake of new Heritage Maxx means that 30% of the fungicide active gets into the plant leaf within 24 hours after application, compared to 5% with the previous granular Heritage formulation. After 72 hours there is double the amount of active in the leaf. Root uptake is also faster and, overall, trials have shown 100% uptake of active into the leaf.

As a result the levels of disease control in trials has been outstanding - with faster effects and longer lasting results from new Heritage Maxx. The new liquid formulation is also easier to use than granules and mixes to a colourless spray mix that leaves no trace on turf after application.

The unique root activity and uptake means Heritage Maxx is also approved for the two key soil-borne turf diseases, Take-All Patch and Type 2 Fairy Rings. The new recommendations for soil-borne disease treatment now advocate two treatments in the spring at the first signs of disease, followed by two applications in the autumn.

The Heritage Maxx application rate for all turf disease treatments is 2.5 l/ha, with each fully recyclable new 3-litres Syngenta S-pac treating 1.2 hectares. Having passed all environmental assessments in the registration process, Heritage Maxx is fully recommended for use within Integrated Turf Management programmes. There is no LERAP restriction, making the product simpler and easier to use.

"STRI trials have shown that, to protect turf quality, Heritage Maxx application at periods of high risk, but before visible symptoms of disease break out, can give the best results from fewer applications over the course of the season," advises Dr Watson. "If the signs of infection are visible, the faster action of Heritage Maxx will still stop further disease developing in clean leaves and minimise the extent of turf damage. It also has good anti-sporulant activity on disease lesions, which will prevent spread and reduce future disease pressure."

Heritage Maxx is distributed in the UK by Scotts Professional.

New GreenCast spraying record sheets

Mark Sanderson — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 15:39:43 GMT

Record keeping of spraying activities is a legal requirement for turf managers and a key element of good stewardship. Detailed records of what you did, when and why are also extremely valuable in justifying treatments and expenses, as well as evaluating what worked most effectively to help with future decisons. The GreenCast spraying records section provides a series of templates to quickly and easily compile and maintain records. You can print out pdfs to fill in and file, or download Word document that you can fill in on your computer, print out and save to your hard drive.

Click here to view the GreenCast Art of Application spraying records section and download your customisable record sheets

Snow thaw reveals Fusarium attack

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:09:34 GMT

As the recent snow cover recedes, turf managers can expect to see new Fusarium Patch infections breaking out, as a result of the high risk conditions for the disease developing under the snow blanket. The pathogen is frequently referred to as 'Pink Snow Mould'; a testament to its thriving in the unique microclimate under snow.

The snow blanket effectively insulates the turf sward, creating humid conditions conducive to the development of the pathogen, Michrodocium nivale, warns Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson. "The thaw typically coincides with rising temperatures that can trigger Fusarium outbreaks. Furthermore, as the snow melts the turf leaf remains constantly wet for prolonged periods, which are ideal conditions for the disease."

Dr Watson advocates that with the high risk turf managers will need to get an effective protectant and curative contact fungicide into place as soon as possible. "Quick action with an application of Daconil Weather Stik as soon as conditions allow, preferably before the first signs of infection are visible, could help prevent loss of turf quality and damage to the playing surface.

"But with infection breaking out, the key advantage with Daconil Weather Stik is that it can also effectively protect clean turf surrounding areas already with visible symptoms of Fusarium Patch disease. Protecting uninfected turf will help to stop small spots coalescing into patches, which could seriously affect playing surfaces and leave them more vulnerable to further winter damage. If the pathogen is allowed to develop and lesions break out at this time of year, it could take weeks or months to repair the damage."

Independent STRI trials over different seasons have shown Daconil Weather Stik applied at the first signs of Fusarium infection has stopped disease spread and given an average 87% reduction in infection compared to untreated, demonstrating the powerful curative control.

Assessments of turf quality during STRI trials have shown Daconil Weather Stik increased turf quality by more than 40% over the treatment programme (below), compared to just 5% improvement with iprodione.

"Turf managers should keep a close watch on the GreenCast web site disease risk forecasts over the coming weeks, for advance warning of Fusarium attacks. Well timed applications at periods of medium or high risk disease predictions, but before any visible signs of disease, have been shown to achieve an average 95% control of infection," added Dr Watson. "Action now will give the best possible results."

Click here to view the Technical Update on Daconil Weather Stik results to enhance turf quality in the face of intense winter Fusarium pressure.

DECEMBER WEATHER Waiting for a cold snap to clean up

Mark Sanderson — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:18:04 GMT

After a wet, wild and windy - but incredibly mild - November, greenkeepers and groundsmen will be desperately hoping for a repeat of last year's weather in December, with bright dry days to let the surface dry out and clear cold nights to help stop disease spread.

But the chances are not good. Whilst last December experienced over 14 days with an air frost - nearly 30% more than average - and an average temperature more than 1.1°C below the long term norm, in the past decade the temperature has dipped below the average 4.2°C only twice. By comparison, and as further evidence of rising temperature trends, in the 1960s the December temperature was below average every year and under 3°C for four consecutive years.

Table 1. December 2008 weather, compared to 30-year average
	Av daily max temp (°C)		Av daily min temp (°C)		Sun (hours)		Rain (mm)
	2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.
UK	6.1	-0.8	0.2	-1.3	54	+41%	88	-30%
N. England	5.8	-0.8	0.2	-1.1	57	+41%	78	-23%
S. England	67	-1.2	0.9	-1.4	72	+54%	48	-43%
Scotland	5.3	-0.4	-0.6	-1.1	32.3	+12%	136	-20%
Wales	6.5	-0.9	0.4	-1.8	63	+64%	95	-45%
N Ireland	7	-0.5	0.6	-1.5	41	+22%	80	-23%

Last year's good average conditions also mask the localised microclimate peaks and troughs that have the all important influence on turf management. Historic weather and disease records on the GreenCast website (www.greencast.co.uk) for Edinburgh, for example, reveal that the vast majority of the month's rainfall fell in two concentrated periods, the first week and then in the week before Christmas (below). Both rain events coincided with peak rises in temperature - which typically occur under the blanket of associated cloud.

The result was a sharp increase in Fusarium risk during both periods. The effect of the falling temperatures and drier periods are also clear to see, with some prolonged periods of welcome relief from disease pressure. For turf managers the weather and disease records provide a valuable insight into creating effective control strategies.

Where it is possible to foresee periods of disease risk there is potential to get the best protection from proactive applications of a preventative contact fungicide, such as Daconil Weather Stik, applied as close as possible to the infection period. But if weather conditions have prevented application - or disease hits during the Christmas break - then treatment with a curative and eradicant Instrata could prove the best option to clear up infection and protect clean turf from attack.

GreenCast weather and disease records have also proven a persuasive tool to help greenkeepers and groundsmen to justify and explain their management regimes to greens committees and managers.

Retain cover

With little opportunity for grass plants to recover over the cold, wet winter months, turf managers need to make every effort to retain turf cover. Over recent years the consistent quality of surfaces for golf and winter sports has improved immeasurably at every level; few players now experience or tolerate the winter season mud baths on bare pitches of yesteryear.

Integrated Turf Management (ITM) programmes operated right through the year have been instrumental in creating healthier turf better able to withstand the rigours of increased demand and intense use. Identifying the problems now and highlighting the issues to redress makes the winter months the ideal time to undertake the training and start the planning for next season's ITM programmes.

Click here to search your local historic weather and disease.

Multi active Instrata gives long term turf disease control

Mark Sanderson — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:05:18 GMT

Fusarium disease attacks over the coming weeks will be the most damaging of the season, warns Syngenta Turf & Amenity Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson. With soil conditions cooling rapidly and turf growth slowing there will be little opportunity to recover from any scarring and surface loss.

Speaking at ScotsTurf this week (11-12 November), Dr Watson highlighted that the risk of Fusarium attack has increased significantly in recent weeks. "The Fusarium pathogen will almost certainly be present in most turf surfaces, even if there are no visible symptoms yet. Turf managers will have to be ready with a proactive strategy for fungicide selection, synchronising application with conditions that are conducive to disease outbreaks. In the difficult conditions the multi-active Instrata fungicide gives greenkeepers greater flexibility to target disease in the turf, as well as incredible long-term protection for clean leaf," he advises.

With rain showers expected all week for the ScotsTurf event in Edinburgh, the GreenCast website disease prediction system - www.greencast.co.uk - was forecasting high risk conditions for Fusarium infection every day. Fusarium risk was predicted to remain high across the UK, with only the eastern most counties of England seeing any respite towards the end of the week.

Dr Watson added that where turf managers have already applied fungicides over the summer and early autumn, switching now to an application of multi-active Instrata with its entirely different mode of action is good management practice to knock out lingering disease populations and give a clean start for the winter. "Instrata includes fludioxonil, the first new contact fungicide for turf for over 20 years. It is proving quite exceptional in giving long-term disease protection."

Hampshire course manager, Mark Openshaw (right), has already experienced the long-term control of Instrata for protecting turf during winter conditions. From one application last November, when disease symptoms were first seen on the most susceptible greens, he reported lesion development was immediately stopped and the turf remained disease free for over nine weeks through the crucial winter period.

With the disease pathogen clearly active and the risk of further development remaining high, the idea of using a multi-active fungicide and hitting disease at different points in its life cycle was particularly attractive. The aim was to stop further spore production from existing disease lesions, to prevent infection that had already penetrated into other plants from developing further, and to protect otherwise clean leaves from being infected.

"I have always been interested in mixing actives to cover the potential disease threats at any given application," says Mr Openshaw. "With Instrata having the active ingredients already mixed in one product simplifies the process and makes spraying easier and faster.

"The results in stopping disease development and clearing up the Fusarium infection were extremely good," he added. "The nine weeks control was conservative, and could possibly have been extended. As we further improve our Integrated Turf Management and reduce the potential risk of Fusarium, we hope to get even longer control out of all fungicide applications."

Click here for further information on Instrata.

Syngenta launch on-line Art of Application podcasts

Mark Sanderson — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:52:22 GMT

Syngenta has launched a series of on-line Art of Application podcasts to guide sprayer operators through the important elements of sprayer maintenance and accurate calibration. Syngenta Application Specialist, Tom Robinson, advocates a few minutes spent checking and setting up the sprayer will pay huge dividends in better results from more accurate application and avoiding potentially costly mistakes.

The podcasts can be downloaded free from the GreenCast Application Zone.

The initial podcasts are packed with practical tips and advice on key topics of routine machinery checks before spraying, how to calibrate the sprayer quickly and accurately - including the all important calculations to check water volume being applied - and issues of nozzle wear. Drawing on Tom Robinson's experience, they are focussed on picking up potential errors early, and providing advice to resolve the problems.

He believes the podcasts are essential viewing for all spray operators to remind about key points and hone their skills, but are also valuable for the whole turf management team, from head groundsman and green keeper to trainee, to understand the process and the importance of accurate application.

The Art of Application podcasts were filmed at Bearwood Lakes Golf Club in Berkshire, with thanks to Course Manager, Dan Lightfoot and sprayer operator, Leigh Powell.

Mr Robinson points out that nozzle wear can be a significant issue with turf applications, especially where high levels of abrasive trace element and some poorly formulated liquid fertiliser applications are applied.

Syngenta research with sprayer applicators on golf turf identified that individual nozzles are not routinely replaced, checked or calibrated for wear. He cites one worn nozzle applying 20% more than others could lead to striping across all the greens from over application of a liquid fertiliser, for example.

Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson, reports the company is investing in a number of key developments to improve spray application in turf. The aim is to target spray more accurately to achieve the best possible result with specific advice being developed for a range of situations.

"Syngenta research has identified significant potential improvements in turf application through specifically designed nozzles and lower water volumes, which we will be looking to further refine and bring to the market over the coming months."

With improved sprayer techniques and more accurate application one of the key routes to better stewardship and more effective use of pesticides in the future, Dr Watson will be presenting some of the Syngenta research and Art of Application information at the Amenity Forum Annual Conference 'Coping with change in Pesticide Legislation', taking place in Nottingham next month (4 November 2009).

Sharpen up your Turf Health seminar report

Mark Sanderson — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:14:12 GMT

Greenkeepers will get better results from all inputs and every action if they cut turf with a sharp mower blade that is correctly set-up, according to Steven Nixon, UK & Ireland Sales Manager for Bernhard and Company. "A clean cut from a sharp mower blade minimises stress on the turf plant. Turf cut with a sharp blade expends less energy trying to repair the damage caused by a blunt blade, so it's better able to withstand disease attacks and make more efficient use of fertiliser, fungicides and water," he says.

Speaking at a series of seminars to 'Sharpen up your Turf Health' last week (12 - 16 October), organised jointly by Syngenta and Bernhard and Company, Mr Nixon (below, right) highlighted that a clean cut caused less 'bleed out' of essential moisture and nutrients, reduced the risk of disease infecting an open wound and, significantly, slows down growth to maintain a better finish for longer.

"A mower set with a contact cut - contact made between the cylinder and bed knife - traps and pulls the leaf until it shears at the weakest point. The turf subsequently grows faster to compensate and repair the damaged tissue," he reports. "That leads to the dull grey/brown fuzz that typically appears in late afternoon as the damaged leaf tips die back." (below left, top)

With a clean non-contact cut - where the mower is set with a two to three thou gap between a sharp cylinder blade and a sharp bed knife - the improved finish will remain all day and keep greens putting more consistently. A clean cut also enhances the ability of turf to cope with other stresses, such as sand topdressing or aeration, and gives greater flexibility in timing turf maintenance operations, he adds.

Mr Nixon also points out that contact set up between the mower blade and the bed knife creates immense friction, which is akin to driving a car with the handbrake on; it's incredibly inefficient and puts extra strain on all the working parts, including the engine, bearings and rollers. It is effectively wearing out the mower faster.

"Our experience, confirmed in subsequent STRI trials, has been that a non-contact set up will significantly preserve the life of mower blades and the bed knife. Even though you may be sharpening the knife more often - typically two or three times a year - only taking off a little metal each time to hone the edge is a lot less abrasive than an intensive regrind to get an edge back on a blade that has been repeatedly back-lapped," he claims.

"Back lapping may be necessary during the season where turf managers don't have access to a grinding facility," he admits, "but at best it's creating a cutting effect that works like pliers, rather than the clean shave of a sharp blade." Bernhard and Company are manufacturers of the Express Dual and Anglemaster sharpening system.

Pre-empt disease to stop turf damage

Turf managers can minimise the visual impact of disease this autumn by identifying key periods when infection will strike, and applying appropriate fungicide at the right time to stop the symptoms breaking out, according to Syngenta Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson.

Independent STRI trials have repeatedly shown that better targeted pro-active applications prior to periods of high Fusarium Patch risk over the autumn and early winter, as indicated by the GreenCast disease forecasting model, can maintain better turf quality than either treatment at the first signs of disease or routine monthly applications (above). "What's more, the pro-active treatment achieved the better results in turf quality from fewer applications and at lower cost over the course of the season," he reports.

Dr Watson (right) highlights the aim of his disease control strategy is to initially minimise the level of disease inoculum present in the turf, and then to make conditions as inhospitable as possible so that populations do not build up to damaging levels. "Integrated Turf Management (ITM) practices are all about limiting the disease population, to a level where it does not cause turf damage. Getting the drainage, aeration and fertility right, as well as turf maintenance - including cutting with a sharp mower - are all essential steps.

"When weather conditions change and become conducive to disease, however, pro-active fungicide applications will be required to stop the disease population building. Where turf is being managed with a good ITM programme, there is greater assurance of success, and the potential for effects to last longer," he adds.

He advocates all turf managers sign up for the free on-line disease forecasting with www.greencast.co.uk that will give up to five days advance warning of risk levels for all key turf diseases. "Armed with this knowledge they can select the most appropriate fungicide to tackle the disease threat.

"Where turf managers can get ahead of disease and apply as spores are landing on the leaf the preventative systemics are most effective, with Heritage applications when growing conditions are good, or the fast acting Banner MAXX during spring and autumn when growth is slower," he advises. "If applications have been delayed and there has been time for spores to germinate and penetrate the leaf - but still before any signs are visible - the curative Daconil Weather Stik can buy extra time in preventing disease damage occurring . This is even more important going into the autumn when slow growth means the turf can not recover from disease attacks."

Dr Watson adds that even if disease has broken out, fungicide treatments will protect unaffected areas of turf that will inevitably be subject to high disease pressure from sporulating lesions, preventing further disease spread. Heritage is also effective in preventing spore release and drying up disease lesions. For a simplified approach, multi-active fungicides, such as Instrata, target diseases at different stages in the life-cycle and allow greater flexibility in the application timing.

Avoid cuts in the economic crisis

Guest speaker at the Syngenta and Bernhard and Company seminars, leading US turf researcher, Professor Karl Danneberger of Ohio State University, reports cutting back on management and inputs in the current economic crisis may have limited visible impact on turf health and course quality in the short term, but next season things will start to go awry and, after a couple of years, all the long term benefits that have been built up will be lost. And once members start to see turf quality slide, they will quickly move to where it's better, he predicts.

"Accepting that all golf clubs are under intense financial pressure - and the situation is probably worse in the US than in the UK - turf quality remains imperative; turf managers need to smarter about using the inputs and budgets that they have more effectively and efficiently," he advises. One trend he has noted in the US is greenkeepers is less of the invasive verticutting and more brushing on greens.

Further cost savings have been achieved through more widespread use of growth regulators to manage turf more effectively, primarily Primo MAXX. In addition to the opportunity to reduce the frequency of mowing on fairways where playing quality permits, on greens and tees the mowing is faster with fewer clippings to remove; it all adds up to significant reduction in time and labour requirement - as well as reduced wear and tear on mowers. "Furthermore, with turf in growth regulation, the greens cut cleaner and stay looking neater for longer, to maintain a higher quality playing surface from less intensive management."

Professor Danneberger also cites trials that have shown a 15 to 20% reduction in Anthracnose on stronger, healthier turf treated with Primo MAXX. "It also appears to make sand topdressing more effective, which in turn gives a firmer surface for better mowing and a cleaner cut. A cleaner cut in turn leads to less disease invasion."

But he warns that using a growth regulator is not a replacement for nitrogen; "if you back off the N too far now, then you are sure to see the impact of Dollar Spot and other diseases coming in soon. We've already seen the effects, and it's not a route you want to take," he adds. "Primo is an add-on to help turf quality and more efficient management."

You can read more of Professor Danneberger's research on the Ohio State University award winning Buckeye Turf web site: http://buckeyeturf.osu.edu/

New Autumn 2009 Turf Talk

Mark Sanderson — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:48:26 GMT

The latest edition of Turf Talk magazine is now available, packed with features and information about some of the latest developments in turf management, and the experiences of greenkeepers and turf managers who are putting them into practice.

Click here to download a copy of the magazine (1.5mb).

A selection of the top headlines and contents include:

	Rescue on course St Andrews Trust received the world's first supplies of RESCUE. See how this revolutionary new herbicide can restore putting surfaces and rescue the fescue.
	Stadium of light Alan Ferguson has come up with his own solution to shed light on Portman Road. Together with Primo MAXX he has cost effectively transformed turf density and wear resistance.
	Pro-active disease control Read about the latest techniques in disease control that can stop damage occurring on your turf and get the best results from fungicides.
	Take-All Patch profile Learn more about this damaging disease that is increasing in severity in turf grass, with practical tips on how to avoid and control it.
	Fairway clear up Read how Duncan Kelso has used RESCUE to remove unsightly Ryegrass and enhance the management of fairways at Kings Hill Golf Club.
	Rough transformation Master Greenkeeper Dan Lightfoot of Bearwood Lakes Golf Club has pioneered an innovative approach to thin out coarse invasive grasses from rough, and let Fescues shine through.
	Time is right Mark Openshaw has found the way to enhance disease control through selecting the right actives and applying at the optimum time at the North Hampshire Golf Club.
	Princess Anne opens up Princess Anne opens a new £5m Syngenta robot designed to make new products for turf quicker and more effectively than before.
	Spray on target Tom Robinson presents trials of the new Syngenta spray nozzles showing promise to get sprays on target and for improved application in turf.
	Ecology Action Read about the winners of the Syngenta sponsored STRI Golf Course Environment Awards, with loads of practical tips for greenkeepers.

Click here to download a copy of the magazine (1.5mb).

Amenity Forum Conference tackles pesticide changes

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:54:53 GMT

The 2009 Amenity Forum Conference will tackle the industry-wide conundrum of 'Coping with Change' from impending legislation on pesticide use and how to take best advantage of developments in application techniques. The Conference will be held at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground on 4th November 2009.

You can register for this important conference by downloading the application form here.

Amenity Forum Chairman, John Moverley, urges everyone to attend. "Changing pesticide legislation is already having a significant effect on the amenity sector. The conference is the industry's opportunity to find out more about the current and potential situations, and to have your say.

"It will be the main event in expressing the views of the amenity sector to all concerned in changing pesticide legislation." The Conference will feature a wide range of speakers, but importantly, it will also have key times when delegates can express their views on issues, direct to the people are involved in the new legalisation and consultation process.

Topics include the potential implications of the Sustainable Use Directive and the Water Framework Directive on the amenity sector, presented by the Chemicals Regulation Directorate and the Environment Agency. Also providing key practical solutions on the day, Dr Ruth Mann of STRI will guide greenkeepers, groundsmen and turf managers through the use of Integrated Turf Management, whilst Dr Simon Watson of Syngenta will provide essential tips and advice on sprayers and nozzle selection to minimise risk and optimise results with applications.

Download a PDF of the conference programme here.

"It would be easy to just ignore matters and then complain afterwards when it affects you," adds Mr Moverley. "Our programme for the day features a diverse range of topics from a number of superb speakers. You do not need to be a member of the Amenity Forum to attend. Please come along and make your voice heard. We look forward to welcoming you."

The 2009 Amenity Forum Conference is sponsored by Syngenta and Scotts.

CPD points are available: BASIS Professional Register 5 points / NRoSo 4 points.

The cost per delegate is £39.50.

For further information, please contact Helen Pearson at the Amenity Forum on 02476 698656 or email helen.pearson@bali.org.uk

Sharpen up Your Turf Health seminars

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:55:53 GMT

Getting your turf in the best possible condition whilst it is still actively growing this autumn is key to producing consistent quality and playability through the tough winter months - and ensure it stays in good shape for next spring.

This autumn, two of the leading turf businesses committed to providing improved golf course maintenance and turf health - Bernhard and Company and Syngenta - have teamed up for a series of seminars running from 12 - 16 October to give ideas and tips for turf maintenance that can deliver better results for playing surface quality.

Furthermore, leading independent US turfgrass researcher, Dr Karl Danneberger, Professor at Ohio State University (above), will be giving his unique and thought provoking insight of the latest research and technological advances in how greenkeepers can improve wear tolerance of turf with growth regulator programmes, and the practical advice on how you can do it.

The seminar topics, presented by technical specialists from Syngenta and Bernhard and Company, will provide greenkeepers, course managers and golf club managers with an invaluable insight into the latest developments and proven practices to maintain and promote turf health, including:

Turf health programmes to counter winter disease threats
Top tips for maintaining turf health
New technologies and strategies for putting greens management from Dr Karl Dannenberger of The Ohio State University
Fine turf renovation with new RESCUE selective herbicide programmes

The 'Sharpen up your Turf Health Programme' seminars will take place at the following prestigious sports venues across the country:

12^th October	Hampden Park - Scottish National Stadium - Glasgow
13^th October	The Lancaster Golf Club, Lancaster
14^th October	Robin Hood Golf Club, Solihull, West Midlands
15^th October	The London Golf Club, Ash, Kent
16^th October	Bath Golf Club, Bath

For further information and to book a place greenkeepers, club managers and agronomists can call Catherine McEwan at Bernhard and Company, tel: 01788 811600 or email: catherine.mcewan@bernhard.co.uk

Click here to register on-line

High speed systemic suits cooling conditions

Mark Sanderson — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:37:57 GMT

Dry weather has limited the incidence of Fusarium Patch so far this autumn. But with soil temperatures now cooling, turf managers must be ready to apply fast acting Banner MAXX when the weather breaks, and the risk of disease attack rapidly rises.

"We have seen from trials and reports on irrigated turf that the Fusarium disease pathogen is already around," reports Dr Simon Watson of Syngenta. "When conditions become more conducive for the disease - with cooler, wetter weather - it could build up very rapidly," he warns.

"As soil temperatures fall below 10^ºC, the fast acting systemic Banner MAXX will get into the plant quicker and start to tackle disease before it can break out into visible damage," advises Dr Watson. Furthermore, the systemic activity will continue to give disease protection after each cut, when a contact only fungicide will be quickly mown off and leave new growth unprotected.

With most of the active absorbed by the plant leaf within an hour of application, Banner MAXX is rapidly rainfast to increase spraying opportunities in wet autumn conditions, or where turf managers want to maintain irrigation of greens that could wash off some other fungicides.

"Even though the daytime temperatures may still reach 15^ºC or more, the longer, cool nights mean that soil temperatures will decline. The activity of slower uptake systemic fungicides could be reduced through the latter part of the growing season," he adds. With turf growth slowing and the potential for recovery from disease attack is reduced through the autumn (right), it becomes imperative to proactively stop disease damage in order to maintain high quality playing surfaces through the winter.

Banner MAXX has proven to be especially effective when used in the spring and autumn, when turf is actively growing but conditions are cooler. Used in the autumn as part of a fungicide programme, the fast moving active - propiconazole - provides an alternative mode of action to summer strobilurin fungicides, before the use of contact Daconil Weather Stik through the winter.

Spot on for stadium diseases

High humidity within sports stadiums creates the ideal conditions for Leaf Spot infections. Caused by a range of fungi, the pathogen Dreschlera siccans can prove especially damaging on Ryegrass playing surfaces, if initial spots melt out into larger patches. Weakened turf will be especially susceptible to wear as the playing season progresses and becomes more susceptible to further disease infection. Furthermore, infected and damaged turf looks unsightly under the spotlight of the TV cameras in modern stadia.

"Restricted air-flow in the stadium environment can increase humidity and temperature at the turf surface, especially for stadiums using artificial lighting rigs and irrigation," advises Dr Watson. "Leaf Spot problems will be worse if fertility is too high, and take care not to cut lower than the recommended heights for the specific turf species."

He adds that groundsmen using Banner MAXX have reported excellent results in stopping Leaf Spot from breaking out, with long-lasting control from early autumn applications.

Golf Course Environment Award Winners announced

Mark Sanderson — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:08:11 GMT

Winners of the 2009 Golf Course Environment Awards have been announced, with Graeme Taylor from the St Andrews New & Jubilee Courses and Matt Worster of Michinhampton Golf Club both off on an exciting US study tour. Organised by STRI and sponsored by Syngenta and Scotts, along with Ramsomes Jacobson and Golf Monthly, the Awards champion the very best in environmental management across the country's golf courses.

But the Awards have also celebrated and given due recognition to many more greenkeepers and Course Managers who are doing remarkable things to protect and enhance the environment everyday - as well as producing a fantastic arena and great conditions for members to enjoy whilst they play.

The experiences and knowledge of those involved provide some valuable inspiration for other greenkeeprs and course managers to implement in their own situations.

Click here for full details of the Award winners and the valuable competition prizes they will receive.

You can download case studies of some of the winning entries by clicking on the Award detail links below:

Fusarium risk rising for October

Mark Sanderson — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 20:21:14 GMT

October weather patterns typically see the serious onset of the UK’s most damaging turf disease, Fusarium Patch. Early reports are that the pathogen has rumbled along through the relatively cool and dull summer conditions, with potential to flare up when triggered by rainfall and changes in temperature.

A review of last year’s rainfall and temperature and the Fusarium disease risk incidence - available free on the GreenCast website, www.greencast.co.uk - reveal the close correlation between weather patterns and the disease (Fig 1, right), in this case for Rugby in the midlands.

If, in this instance, Heritage fungicide had been applied proactively when the risk of Fusarium was predicted to increase significantly in the wet and warmer weather - at the end of September or on the 24 October - spores landing on the leaf would have been stopped from germinating and leaf damage prevented. An application on 12 October, however, would have seen the most potent first two weeks of fungicide activity wasted at a time of little or no disease pressure.

If spraying conditions had prevented application until a couple of days after the prediction of high disease risk, then using a fungicide with greater curative activity, such as Daconil Weather Stik, could still stop disease developing before any signs of infection breakout, especially as growth slows and contact fungicides come to the fore.

For even greater flexibility at an often difficult time of year, products with a dual mode of action, such as Banner MAXX, or the multi-active fungicide, Instrata, give both curative and protectant activity to stop further disease development and keep surrounding turf clear of infection.

The typically high rainfall for October, along with the large diurnal range of day and night temperatures (Table 1), highlights the potential risk for Fusarium and the difficulties for spraying. The GreenCast weather information includes a five-day spray window forecast, to help operators schedule spray timing more effectively.

Table 1. October 2008 weather, compared to 30-year average
Av daily max temp (°C)		Av daily min temp (°C)		Sun (hours)		Rain (mm)
2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.	2008	30-yr av.
UK	12.2	-0.3	5.1	-0.8	110	+20%	156	+33%
N. England	12.3	-0.3	5.4	-0.6	118	+27%	130	+38%
S. England	14.0	-0.1	5.9	-1.0	130	+22%	77	-2%
Scotland	10.4	-.04	4.0	-0.9	89	+17%	238	+46%
Wales	12.3	-0.4	6.1	-0.4	102	+11%	229	+49%
N Ireland	11.9	-0.6	4.8	-1.3	98	+13%	147	+28%

Washed out fertility

This season fertility has been one of the major challenges posed by the intermittent heavy rainfall, with dramatic peaks and troughs in turf growth. Whilst many turf managers would have traditionally completed their fertiliser programmes by October, this season a further top-up application may be required to satisfy turf growth during any period of mild weather through the autumn.

A growth spurt after heavy rainfall can put turf under excessive stress, especially if available nutrients have been washed out. Maintaining turf in growth regulation with Primo MAXX can minimise stress on plants and create more consistent playing surfaces throughout the season. Used in conjunction with a planned fertiliser policy will keep turf in the best of health.

As the weather cools and turf growth slows, plants that have been held under Primo programmes through the summer can be gradually allowed to come out of regulation for the winter, using a final application of half-rate Primo MAXX towards the middle of October. Sports pitches in sheltered stadiums or with under soil heating, where growth can continue throughout the winter, may be held in growth regulation to maintain quality and extra strength.

GreenCast UK Articles

GreenCast web site upgrade

Stick to contacts to preserve turf quality

Fundamentals of fungicide selection

Mode of action

Biochemical action

Application timing

Nozzle winners announced

Heritage Maxx gains approval for Ireland

Buy Syngenta Turf Nozzles and Art of Application tools here

0800 652 4215

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New Syngenta Turf Nozzles launched at BTME

• Better targeting of sprays

• Faster operation

• Better results

• Reduce water volumes

• Reduce risk of drift

• Increase spraying opportunities

Flat fan nozzles are inherrantly susceptible to drift (left), which has been largely overcome with the new Syngenta Turf Foliar Nozzle (right).

New Heritage Maxx launched at BTME

New GreenCast spraying record sheets

Snow thaw reveals Fusarium attack

DECEMBER WEATHER Waiting for a cold snap to clean up

After a wet, wild and windy - but incredibly mild - November, greenkeepers and groundsmen will be desperately hoping for a repeat of last year's weather in December, with bright dry days to let the surface dry out and clear cold nights to help stop disease spread.

Retain cover

Multi active Instrata gives long term turf disease control

Syngenta launch on-line Art of Application podcasts

The podcasts can be downloaded free from the GreenCast Application Zone.

Sharpen up your Turf Health seminar report

Pre-empt disease to stop turf damage

Avoid cuts in the economic crisis

New Autumn 2009 Turf Talk

Rescue on course

Stadium of light

Pro-active disease control

Take-All Patch profile

Fairway clear up

Rough transformation

Time is right

Princess Anne opens up

Spray on target

Ecology Action

Amenity Forum Conference tackles pesticide changes

Sharpen up Your Turf Health seminars

High speed systemic suits cooling conditions

Spot on for stadium diseases

Golf Course Environment Award Winners announced

Fusarium risk rising for October

Table 1. October 2008 weather, compared to 30-year average

Av daily max temp (°C)

Av daily min temp (°C)

Sun

(hours)

Rain

(mm)

2008

30-yr av.

2008

30-yr av.

2008

30-yr av.