Solutions for Diseases Root-infecting Pathogens
Fungicide Programming for Root and Foliar Diseases on Putting Greens Putting greens are often impacted by a root disease complex, where multiple pathogens interact synergistically to weaken turf. This combined effect will cause a significant decline in root health, where turf struggles to recover, particularly in areas with other stressors (heat, drought, traffic, shade etc). To combat this, golf course superintendents can apply a simple rotation of Resilia ® (4 fl. oz.) alternated with the tank-mix of Fame ® (0.36 fl. oz.) + Serata ® (0.6 oz.). This rotation incorporates five different modes of action for Pythium root rot, fairy ring, patch diseases, all while simultaneously combating pathogenic nematodes. These applications should be watered-in with 0.125” to move fungicide down to where the pathogens are active. Foliar fungicide applications can be scheduled on alternate weeks of soilborne sprays to keep post-application irrigation requirements neatly separated. Foliar disease control can be achieved through a simple rotation of a tank-mix of Signature™ XTRA Stressgard ® Liquid with chlorothalonil (Daconil ® ) alternated with a tank-mix of Signature XTRA Stressgard Liquid with iprodione (Chipco ® 26GT or Interface ® Stressgard). This simple yet highly effective program has been ground-truthed across decades of university trials and on-course performance. Recent research has greatly advanced our understanding of root-infecting pathogens like pathogenic nematodes, Pythium species, and ectotrophic fungi (e.g., take-all root rot, summer patch, spring dead spot). Additionally, we now know that many of these pathogens interact synergistically to create a root disease complex. These insights have led to improved management strategies, including the importance of preventive fungicide applications timed to pathogen activity at specific 2” soil temperatures, often well before symptoms appear. Root diseases are most severe when turf is stressed by factors like heat, traffic, or poor soil conditions, and diagnostic labs frequently detect multiple pathogens in affected samples. This highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that combines cultural practices with targeted fungicide use to manage both primary and secondary root pathogens. Maximizing turfgrass health through proper cultural practices is a must. And in addition to the below fungicide recommendations for each root disease, golf course superintendents should consider incorporating Signature™ XTRA Stressgard ® Liquid fungicide. This solution can help mitigate damage from several root diseases by enhancing the plant’s photosynthetic efficiency and promoting stronger rooting. Improved photosynthesis supports overall turf health and recovery, while deeper, more resilient roots increase the plant's ability to withstand stress and disease pressure, making it a valuable addition to any root disease management program.
Application
Product and Use Rate per 1,000 sq. ft.
Resilia ® 4 fl. oz.
Applications on 14-21 day intervals to manage root disease complexes starting in spring at 55 ° F 2” soil temperatures. Water-in application immediately with 0.125” of irrigation
alternated with
Fame ® 0.36 fl. oz. + Serata ® 0.6 oz.
Signature TM XTRA Stressgard ® Liquid 4.5 fl. oz. + Daconil ® Ultrex 3.2 fl. oz.
Applications on 14 day intervals on alternate weeks of soil sprays to manage foliar diseases before symptoms appear
alternated with
Signature XTRA Stressgard Liquid 4.5 fl. oz. + Chipco ® 26GT 4 fl. oz. or Interface ® Stressgard 4 fl. oz.
PRO TIP : An easy button rotation for managing root disease complexes is a rotation of Resilia ® alternated with Fame ® + Serata ® . This watered-in rotation will control all major soilborne root diseases simultaneously. For best results include foliar applications of Signature™ XTRA Stressgard ® Liquid.
June 2026
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