Texas

Probably because of the drought, it's been a particularly bad year for take-all root rot on home lawns, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

"The fungus really likes stress--over watering, under watering, too much or too little fertilizer--all can contribute," said Dr. Karl Steddom, Texas Cooperative Extension plant pathologist.

An update on take-all root rot controls by Steddom is one of the featured topics at the upcoming East Texas Turf Grass Conference. The conference is set for Feb. 2 at the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center at Overton.

Other topics will include disease control in turf grass and fungicide, Texas Department of Agriculture pesticide license, an update on ornamental bed weed controls and herbicides, and calibration methods for applying fertilizer and chemicals.

Five continuing education units will be offered to pesticide license holders. One unit will be in integrated pest management, one-half unit in laws and regulations and 3.5 units in the general category.

The program is designed for managers of school districts, city parks and recreation departments, and homeowners, but the general public is welcome, said Randy Reeves, Extension agent for agriculture and natural resources, Harrison County, and one of the program's organizers.

Registration for the event is $20 per person. Participants should make checks payable to: "TCE Account #218305-60001." Checks should be mailed to: East Texas Turfgrass Conference, c/o Randy Reeves, 102 West Houston, Marshall, TX. 75670. Include the name, address and phone number of the attendee with the check, Reeves said.

Maps and more detailed driving instructions can be found on the Internet at http://overton.tamu.edu/maps.htm or by calling the Overton Center at 903-834-6191.