Integrating insect pathogens into the management of turfgrass pests

Use of insect pathogens in turfgrass is still very limited.  However, opportunities for insect pathogen use are growing due to increasing restrictions on synthetic insecticide use, insecticide resistance development, and a growing demand for organic turf care.  To accelerate the adoption of insect pathogen use in turfgrass, we are investigating avenues to integrate pathogens into the management of three important turfgrass pests: the annual white grub complex, black cutworm, and annual bluegrass weevil.  Approaches include testing new pathogen species/strains and combinations/integration with other management practices such as other insect pathogens, synthetic insecticides, cultural practices, and plant resistance.