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The New York State Turfgrass Association's weekly report shares spring mowing tips, some ground ivy control solutions and a leaf spot update, reported by Cornell University PhD Frank S. Rossi:
• Mow/Feed: With spring growth surging it is tempting to scalp turf to reduce mowing frequency. Not only will this not reduce the need for mowing, it will significantly injure the lawn and create additional pest and stress injury as the plant prepares for summer stresses. It is still too early for most lawns to be fertilized as we have finally entered the spring surge of growth in earnest. I recommend that you wait at least another three to four weeks before most lawns will need fertilizer, if they have been on a fall fertilization program.
• Ground Ivy: Over the years ground ivy has remained a difficult to control broadleaf weed. Studies from the mid-1990’s from WI found that any product with 2,4-D in it would control ground ivy (80-100 percent) when applied at full-bloom in the spring (around May 15 statewide) or after the first frost in the fall. Additionally, Professor Leslie Weston’s research group has found that in early July, QuickSilver T and O at standard rates provided only moderate control (10-40 percent) of broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, white clover, veronica spp. ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) and broadleaf plantain. However, when applied in combination with Confront, Turflon or Garlon, control was generally markedly improved to levels of 70-90 percent or greater. In combination with these products, QuickSilver appeared to act synergistically in this instance, as control was significantly improved for most weeds and most product combinations as compared to each product applied separately.
• Leafspots: Leafspots are a big issue on lawns, but to date no leafspot problems have been found on putting greens. Poor quality bentgrass at this time of year can be related to cold injury, PGR injury from seedhead suppression or simple mechanical damage. Bentgrass needs consistent warm growing weather to be healthy. - Cornell University