The correct identification of turf pathogens is essential to prevent or cure turf damage and to minimise the use of ineffective pesticides. There is currently a dearth of professional, reliable plant pathology services for the turf industry, and it is clear that a subject is required in this course to educate practitioners, consultants and technical representatives in correct diagnostic technique and identification. This is especially true now, with a revolution in fungal taxonomy and the advent of DNA methods, and with the new findings on the prevalence of mite pests in turf. Such a subject might also provide a pathway for much needed post-graduate study in turf pathology. This subject will focus on microscopic examination of turf samples to identify fungal pathogens from mycelium or spores, and to identify various nematode, mite and insect pests. The focus will be on isolating pathogens and pests from living turf samples, but some use will be made of laboratory isolation of fungal pathogens using artificial media.

Subject rules

Readings