Field Notes — Jim Favreau, Harrells Territory Manager

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This week: dollar spot pressure rising across the region

Overnight lows holding above 60°F combined with morning dew creates prime dollar spot conditions. Preventive applications now are far cheaper than curative rescues in July. Call Jim if you need help dialing in your rotation.

Act this week

Dollar spot window is open — your spray protocol for May

With GDD tracking ahead of average across Central MA and the Boston metro, dollar spot risk is elevated on bentgrass greens, fairways, and fine fescue lawns alike. A targeted preventive rotation with Enclave or Torque keeps you ahead of the curve before summer heat locks in. Timing matters more than product — get apps down before you see symptoms.

Jim Favreau · May 20, 2026 · 5 min read

60°

F overnight

Dollar spot trigger threshold

Recent posts

01

Insects · Golf & Lawn

Grub prevention: adults are flying — don't miss the window

Japanese beetle and masked chafer adults are emerging now. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole need soil time before egg hatch. Act before June 15 across the region.

Act now

02

Fertility · All segments

Summer N strategy: feed the turf without pushing it

High-N flushes under heat stress invite disease and scalp injury. A Harrells MESA or Polyon blend keeps color steady without the dangerous flush that opens the door to brown patch.

New

03

Disease · Sports & Lawn

Brown patch: start watching as July approaches

Ryegrass and tall fescue fields are most at risk. First preventive application 2–3 weeks before peak conditions saves turf quality and costly recovery. Plan your program now.

Seasonal

04

Weeds · Lawn care

Crabgrass escapes and summer annuals — your post-emergent options

Pre-emergent barriers are thinning now. Know which post-emergent chemistries are safe under summer heat stress before you put the sprayer out — some cause serious turf injury above 85°F.

Seasonal

05

Disease · Golf

Pythium blight on greens: your early-warning checklist

Hot, humid nights with little air movement are the Pythium recipe. This one can kill a putting surface overnight. Know the signs and have a preventive plan before conditions line up.

New

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Central Massachusetts · Greater Boston · Greater Springfield