Bacterial decline
Acidovorax avenae
A relatively new bacterial disease of creeping bentgrass putting greens (first reported 2009), usually superficial but occasionally damaging.
Identification
Individual etiolated (elongated, chlorotic) stems and leaves of creeping bentgrass scattered across the green. Diagnosis requires lab confirmation.
Symptoms
Etiolated, elongated chlorotic stems. Scattered superficial decline on greens. Occasional turf loss in severe cases
Signs
Individual etiolated (elongated, chlorotic) stems and leaves of creeping bentgrass scattered across the green. Diagnosis requires lab confirmation.
Biology
Bacterial decline is associated with Acidovorax avenae and is most often expressed as scattered etiolation, chlorosis, and decline on stressed creeping bentgrass putting greens. Diagnosis should be confirmed through a diagnostic lab.
Epidemiology
Turfgrass stress during warm periods; the disease is still poorly understood.
Favorable Conditions
Turfgrass stress during warm periods; the disease is still poorly understood.
Cultural Management
Reduce turfgrass stress during active symptom periods. Maintain balanced growth on greens
Further Reading
University extension resources — open in a new tab.
Related Reports
No published reports yet for this pest.
Reports will appear here as they are peer-reviewed and published.