A trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Pylex herbicide in controlling Couch grass and Kikuyu on our golf greens. I conducted this trial on greens 12, 13, and 14 and the practice putting green. Couch and Kikuyu are undesired species that can disrupt the quality of the greens, and this trial aimed to assess whether Pylex could selectively target and control couch grass while preserving the health of cool-season turf grass such as bent grass and Poa annua (winter grass).
One of the most notable visual indicators of Pylex’s effectiveness is the whitening or bleaching of couch grass, which occurs as the herbicide disrupts its growth. This trial was done leading into our green renovation as this will also help with the recovery of the desired grass types that we are trying to achieve.
Next steps:
Reapplication: A second treatment of Pylex will be applied 21 days after the first application as per the label requirements.
Continued Monitoring: Regular assessments will be made to track the progress of couch grass control, focusing on the continued whitening effect and potential regrowth. The condition of the surrounding turf grass will also be monitored to ensure no adverse effects.
Final Evaluation: Once the trial is complete, a final evaluation will be made to determine the overall success of Pylex in controlling Couch grass in our golf greens. If this trial is a success, this process will be something you will see happen to the rest of the greens in the near future.
Thank you, Nick Taplin
Course Superintendent
