BRIAN PAIGE RECEIVES UMass Update BEACON AWARD
BRIAN PAIGE RECEIVES UMass Update BEACON AWARD
foliage from sites with Pseudocercospora. This will help to reduce overwintering inoculum used by the pathogen to initiate new outbreaks. However, keep in mind that the pathogen is widespread in the environment and even with good cultural control, the disease can reappear. Prune and discard blighted twigs and branches throughout the canopy during this upcoming winter. For mature and dense lilacs, consider thinning out the canopy to allow for better air flow and sunlight penetration. Foliar disease fungi thrive in shaded and moist areas of the inner canopy.
UMass Winter School for Turf Managers
The UMass Winter School for Turf Managers is an intensive 110 + hour certificate program designed to convey essential concepts for producing and maintaining well-performing turf surfaces, with an emphasis on environmental stewardship, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.
Professional looking to expand their skills in the management of fine laws, golf courses, sports surfaces, parks, municipal, institutional, or private grounds, or sales and support to these industry segments. Prospective students must apply and be accepted to the program. Learn more at turf @ umass. edu.
Welcome Evan Mascitti, Ph. D.
3. Symptoms of Pseudocercospora leaf blotch on Syringa vulgaris ' Krasavitsa Moskvy '. Lilac powdery mildew( Microsphaera syringae) is also visible. Photo by N. Brazee
There are no chemicals labeled specifically for use against Pseudocercospora on lilac. However, both propiconazole and copper hydroxide are labeled for use on lilac in Massachusetts. These broad-spectrum, contact fungicides should have utility against the pathogen. While the exact timing is unknown, fungicide applications should be made early in the growing season and on regular intervals until the foliage is fully developed. However, avoid fungicide application while lilacs are in bloom to reduce the impact on pollinators. Mild( i. e. temperatures > 75 ° F) and humid conditions are conducive to spore production and disease development. If we experience a dry spring and early summer, the fungicide application interval can likely be extended. Scout plants carefully during the month of July for any symptoms and make spot treatments as necessary to suppress further disease development.
Reprinted from Hort Notes 2025 Vol. 36:8, October 1, 2025.
Dr. Evan Mascitti has joined UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture as a tenuretrack faculty member. In a new position entitled Urban Managed Landscapes, his role builds off the legacy of longtime Turf Agronomist Dr. Scott Ebdon.
Geologist turned groundskeeper, Evan comes with a strong academic background, including M. S. and Ph. D. degrees from Penn State, complemented by significant experience in industry. His career has taken him to prestigious sports venues from Citi Field to PNC Park, maintaining turf, coordinating renovations, monitoring irrigation, and optimizing cultural practices. In his most recent position, at Biocore LLC, he honed his research skills in surface testing as it relates to athlete injury and performance.
Evan will serve as the primary instructor for the Introduction to Turfgrass Management course and develop additional courses for turf and horticulture students in the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. His research will serve as the foundation for Extension and outreach activities to New England stakeholders and will include establishment of trials at the Joseph Troll Turf Research Center.
MALP Newsline | Fall 2025 19