Agrovista Amenity | Turf Hub Podcast

S2 Ep11: From Greenkeeper to Researcher: Dr John Dempsey on Phosphite and Turf Disease Management

In this episode, Josh talks with Dr. John Dempsey an independent turfgrass researcher with years of experience both as a greenkeeper and a superintendent who has dedicated his career to understanding phosphite’s role in turfgrass health. He delves into how phosphite enhances plant defence mechanisms, suppresses common turf diseases, and can be integrated into an existing IPM or fertility program. Dr. Dempsey shares best practices and surprising insights from his research, empowering turf managers to keep their playing surfaces in optimal condition.

S2 Ep10: Building Knowledge for the Future: Inside the Sportsturf Academy with Dr. Jonathan Knowles

In this episode of The Turf Hub Podcast, Joshua Thomason is joined by Dr. Jonathan Knowles, Head of the Sportsturf Academy at Leicester City Football Club. Together, they explore how the Academy is shaping the future of the sports turf industry through innovative training and education. Jonathan discusses the Academy’s comprehensive approach to supporting turf professionals from delivering industry-recognised qualifications such as BASIS and FACTS, to providing practical learning opportunities through their upcoming courses. The conversation also highlights the Academy’s dedicated disease diagnosis service, which offers vital support for turf managers in diagnosing turfgrass diseases. Courses can be found www.lcfc.com/pages/en/sta-courses

S2 Ep9: Disease Series 'Nematodes as a Sustainable Solution for Leatherjackets & Chafer Grubs'

In this episode of The Turf Hub Podcast, host Josh Thomason speaks with Dr. Richard Binks from Koppert to explore how nematodes can provide an effective, sustainable approach to controlling leatherjackets and chafer grubs. The conversation centers on two key products: Sportnem T (Steinernema carpocapsae) and Sportnem H (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora). Dr. Binks shares best practices for application timing, soil preparation, and monitoring, along with insights into future innovations in biological pest management.

S2 Ep8: Disease Series 'Grey Leaf Spot'

Join us for an insightful episode of the Agrovista Amenity TurfHub Podcast (Disease Series) as we delve into Grey Leaf Spot (GLS) a prevalent and increasingly challenging disease affecting sports turf, particularly within football stadium environments. Host Joshua Thomason is joined by Deborah Cox, a molecular biologist with deep expertise in turf disease management. Deborah shares practical strategies for identifying and diagnosing Grey Leaf Spot, providing valuable insights into its biology and behaviour. Josh also speaks with Head Groundsmen Gareth Abernethy Fulham FC (Craven Cottage) and James Williams London Stadium, who share their first-hand experience managing the disease in elite stadiums. Together, they discuss cultural practices that can help reduce disease pressure, as well as both fungicidal and non-fungicidal control options available to turf managers.

S2 Ep7: Disease Series 'Dollar Spot'

Join us in this insightful episode of the Agrovista Amenity Turfhub Podcast as we explore Dollar Spot, a prevalent disease impacting sportsturf playing surfaces. Host Joshua Thomason welcomes Deborah Cox, a molecular biologist specialising in turf disease management. Deborah brings her extensive expertise to the table, offering practical advice and strategies for diagnosing and treating Dollar Spot. Additionally, Dan Kendle, has been working in the industry for over 25 years and is Head Greenkeeper at Newquay Golf Club, he sits down with Joshua and shares the best management practices he uses to keep Dollar Spot under control throughout the season CPD points reference code: CP/148463/2425/k