This project highlights one component of a broader portfolio of center-funded research initiatives focused on developing novel approaches to complex scientific challenges.

Ground pearls are scale insects that are an extremely destructive pest in southeastern North Carolina that feed on turfgrass roots. Currently, chemical and mechanical control options provide little to no control, which places an emphasis on turfgrass selection. Anecdotally, some turfgrass species and varieties may possess increased resistance to ground pearls. The objective of this study is to identify turfgrass species and cultivars that possess increased resistance to ground pearls that can be utilized in affected sites. A secondary objective is to establish ground pearl thresholds for specific turfgrasses to quantitatively justify proper turfgrass selection. Five turfgrass species and seven varieties were planted in two ground pearl infested sites in Onslow County, North Carolina. Specific planting materials include ‘TifQuick’ bahiagrass, ‘Common’ centipedegrass, ‘El Toro’ and ‘Lobo’ zoysiagrasses, ‘Sola’ St. Augustinegrass, ‘TifTuf’ hybrid- and ‘Celebration’ common-bermudagrasses. Materials were sodded on 3 feet by 5 feet plots in August 2025, and plots are arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications at each location. Species are being maintained according to NCSU Extension recommendations. Living groundcover and turfgrass quality are being evaluated monthly. Ground pearl pressure (counts) are being measured annually for 2 to 3 years after planting. Specifically, 2, 2-inch diameter by 3-inch-deep cores will be collected in December of each year, dissected, and ground pearl cysts counted. To date, turfgrass quality and living ground cover data collection is ongoing.