Moss Control

We are going to begin testing a few new products to help alleviate the Silvery-thread moss that has encroached on to the practice green as well as a handful of other greens.  Silvery-thread moss (Byrun argentum Hedw.) is a problematic weed to putting greens that has become more prevalent in recent years for a variety of reasons; increased demands for faster greens, decreased topdressing and cultural practices do to financial reasons, limitation or removal of registered heavy-metal pesticides with known effects on moss etc.  At this point, we are going to begin evaluating some of the new control products that will help us (along with increased topdressing and a re-vamped cultural plan) combat the moss and slowly eradicate it.  Currently, there is no magic bullet, no product capable of killing the moss without injuring the creeping bentgrass.  The products we will evaluate will help tip the balance in favor of the grass by injuring or stunting the moss while doing as little damage to the existing turf, but in some cases, there may be tip-burn or slight discoloration of the turf, but this is all visual.  It is this trial and error that will help us create a long-term management plan for the greatest moss control with the most minimal disruption to the playing surface.


Click here for USGA Green Section article on moss