Rapid Turfgrass Diagnostic Service

University of Florida, Turf Path Program

• General Information
• Submission Guidelines
• Disease Happenings
• Download the Submittal Form (pdf)

This service was designed and implemented for managers of high quality turfgrass in Florida. The biggest distinction between this and the standard services provided by the Plant Disease Clinic is the turn-around time for sample results, the direct involvement of the UF Extension Turfgrass Pathologist, and the price charged for the service. The price is $75 and reflects the added costs associated with a full time student dedicated to turfgrass diagnostics with rapid turn-around time. Financial support generated through this program is appreciated.

A preliminary diagnosis will be provided within 24 to 36 hours of receiving the sample. The preliminary diagnosis will be based on visual observation of the sample upon arrival, communications with the sample submitter, and inspection of samples for disease symptoms and pathogen signs after incubation in a moisture chamber. Recommendations will be made to steer short term management strategies based on these observations. If no pathogens are detected, the diagnosis and recommendation will be based on symptom appearance and timing, host affected, and observations of disease trends for the area.

The final report will provide a diagnosis based on culture plate results and additional observations after extended incubation. Fungicide recommendations will be made that reflect the results of research conducted at the University of Florida.
Additional information in the final report will include EC and pH data for the sample. Soluble salts (EC) and pH evaluations (if made) will be performed according to the procedures indicated in the ESTL Analytical Procedures and Training Manual: UF/IFAS Extension Soil Testing Laboratory (ESTL) Analytical Procedures and Training Manual Mylavarapu, Rao S., E.D. Kennelley. 2002.

Cup-cutter samples cannot offer a representative population of a nematode infestation, however; roots will be inspected for damage. If nematode feeding damage is suspected, this will be indicated in the report. Submitting a sample for nematode assay will also be recommended. Instructions for proper nematode sampling techniques can be found at Nematode Management for Golf Courses in Florida Crow, W. T. 2001.

The final diagnosis and recommendation can be e-mailed, faxed, telephoned, or sent via regular mail. Please indicate your preferred method of reply on the submission form.

Personnel

Dr. Phil Harmon
Turfgrass Pathologist and Extension Specialist with UF IFAS Department of Plant Pathology
Phone: 352 392 3631X340
Email: pfharmon@ufl.edu

Mr. Jerry (Jerome) Dewberry
Research Assistant and DPM Graduate Student with UF IFAS Department of Plant Pathology
Phone: 352 392 1795
Email: theboy33@ufl.edu

Services Not Provided

• Nematode quantification

• Pesticide residue recommendations

• Soil nutrient levels or plant tissue analysis for macro or minor elements

• Toxic plant identification and mycotoxin analysis.

• Pathogen determination from water sources

• Pathogen determination from soil or growing media by baiting or culturing methods