This project highlights one component of a broader portfolio of center-funded research initiatives focused on developing novel approaches to complex scientific challenges.
Center Update: Biology and Management of Turf Diseases in NC: Focusing on Root-Knot Nematode and the Turfgrass Microbiome
(Updated: July 8, 2026, 5 p.m.)
Submitted by: Dr. Jim Kerns (Professor and Extension Specialist, Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology)
Biology and Management of Root Knot Nematode
Numerous fungi and nematodes are problematic for turfgrasses, especially on golf course putting greens. Recently, we have observed an increase in the incidence of root-knot nematode (RKN) in samples submitted to the NCSU Turfgrass Diagnostic Lab. Consequently, we found it vital to further explore the biology and management of this important pathogen. The objectives of this study include: 1) Identifying the species associated with RKN damage on golf course putting greens in NC; 2) Assessing nematicide sensitivity among various RKN species present in NC; 3) Evaluating the effect of temperature on RKN life stages in vitro; 4) Evaluating nematicide programs and timings for RKN suppression. To date, we have collected RKN samples from over 35 golf courses in NC and throughout the US. We are currently working to identify the species in these samples. Objectives 2 and 3 are in the early planning stages and should commence in the summer of 2026. We have completed a year of nematicide testing and have found that Indemnify and Trefinti provide excellent reductions in RKN populations regardless of re-application interval. Applications were conducted in late April, and four applications were made in this study. We plan to evaluate different timings and rates in the future. It is clear that Indemnify and Trefinti are excellent materials for the suppression of RKN.
Table 1. Effects of nematicide and application interval on RKN Counts from an ultradwarf bermudgrassputting green.
Influence of Common Lawn Care Practices on the Turfgrass Microbiome
The influence of typical management practices on the microbiomes of tall fescue and zoysiagrass is unknown. There is considerable interest in alternative management as a means to limit negative effects on the turfgrass microbiome, yet there is limited evidence that standard practices reduce microbial diversity. This study aims to contribute to this necessary data set and will likely demonstrate that management has little effect on microbiome composition. This study was established in the summer of 2024, and the initial samples to evaluate the microbiome showed that the microbiomes of tall fescue and zoysiagrass are completely different. Moreover, the most recent sampling demonstrated that management has zero impact on microbial diversity.