December 16, 2025

S3 E66 Dr. John Inguagiato. Can Phosphite Reduce Algae?

1 hour 11 minutes

In this episode of Turfgrass Epistemology, I sit down with Dr. John Inguagiato to discuss his peer-reviewed research on phosphite use for suppressing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) on putting greens. Together, we break down the science behind phosphite chemistry, application rates, turf safety, and what the data actually say—beyond marketing claims.

Dr. Inguagiato’s 2017 Crop Science paper, “Effect of Phosphite Rate and Source on Cyanobacteria Colonization of Putting Green Turf,” is one of the most frequently cited studies on this topic. In this conversation, we explore how phosphite differs from phosphate, why cyanobacteria respond differently to these compounds, and how phosphite applications can reduce algal crusting without relying solely on traditional fungicides

This discussion covers:

How phosphite suppresses cyanobacteria colonization on creeping bentgrass putting greens

Differences between phosphite vs. phosphate in turf systems

Optimal phosphite application rates that balance efficacy and phytotoxicity risk

Why product source and formulation matter less than active ingredient rate

Practical implications for algae management programs on golf greens

How this research fits into modern integrated turfgrass management

If you manage putting greens, work in turfgrass research, or want an evidence-based explanation of phosphite products that cuts through anecdote and advertising, this episode provides critical context straight from the study’s lead author.

📄 Research discussed:

Inguagiato, J.C., Kaminski, J.E., & Lulis, T.T. (2017). Effect of Phosphite Rate and Source on Cyanobacteria Colonization of Putting Green Turf. Crop Science 57: S-274–S-284.

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#TurfgrassScience #GolfCourseManagement #Phosphite #Cyanobacteria #PuttingGreens #TurfgrassResearch #SoilScience #EvidenceBasedTurf #TurfgrassEpistemology

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By Travis Shaddox

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