Turf Pest Management Test with Questions and Answers

Turf Pest Management Test with Questions and Answers How can you minimize clover mite injury? ANSWER One of the best ways to limit clover mite injury is to provide adequate water to sites that have a high risk of injury. Watering both suppresses winter mite populations and helps turfgrass to tolerate injury. If you are going to apply a pesticide to control clover mites, would you use a spot or broadcast treatment? Explain your answer. ANSWER Usually, clover mite damage is limited to warm, dry areas along sun-exposed sides of buildings. Spot treatments are effective when directed to sites clover mites use for feedinga nd egg laying. Areas to treat include lower foundation walls and tree trunks as well as adjacent sun-exposed turf. Spot applications reduce pesticide use. How can you manage cutworms with minimal environmental impact? ANSWER When possible, select a resistant endophyte-enhanced variety of fescue or ryegrass. Do not mow turf any lower than 2.5 inches (6.25 cm). Remove clippings after mowing because adult cutworm moths lay eggs at the tip of grass blades. If you use insecticides, apply them late in the day because cutworm larvae feed at night. Consider using beneficial nematodes, especially in sites where continual reinfestation occurs. What turf management and maintenance practices minimize problems with chinch bugs? ANSWER Manage (minimize) thatch. Avoid using susceptible varieties. Do not plant fine (red) fescue in full sun. Choose endophyte0enhanced fescue and ryegrass. Do not apply high-nitrogen fertilizer applications in spring. What should you do to control fall armyworms? ANSWER You can manage fall armyworms with entomopathenogenic nematodes or insecticides. Monitor larval populations by using a disclosing soap solution. Apply insecticides at the first sign of damage. (Damage