Whiteleaf showing up

Springtime usually brings an increase in sightings and questions about the disease known as white leaf (or whiteleaf). It has been described on bermudagrass, Poa annua, paspalum and possibly even bentgrass. It is believed to be caused by a bacteria-like organism known as a phytoplasma, and is probably transmitted by an insect such as a leaf hopper or mealybug.

White leaf produces small areas (spots or patches) of entirely white turf plants. The patches will frequently pop up on greens…