You Are Here: Management Updates 1999 Archive June 4, 1999

Date: June 4, 1999
Category: Diseases
Subject: Water Stress, Red Thread, Tip Blights

Water supply seems to be the most significant turf problem. When plants are stressed and growth is inhibited, many fungi can take advantage of turf plants in their weakened state. In lawns and on golf courses, it wouldn't be surprising to see dollar spot where leaf moisture is sufficient. Root diseases on golf courses are likely to be causing above-ground problems, especially take-all on bentrgrass. Thatchy areas are particularly prone to problems because it is so difficult to re-wet once it dries.

Red thread is common in lawns at this time. Some tip blights, particularly Ascochyta blight, are likely to be found. These are rarely serious, but the many blighted tips of the grass blades can make a lawn unsightly. You may be able to see the tiny, black fruiting bodies of the fungi in the blighted tips, especially with a hand lens. Tip blights are usually short-term problems that will grow out and be mowed away when the grass begins to grow more quickly. Be sure that automatic watering systems are applying sufficient water in the absence of rainfall and that the timing allows the grass to dry quickly after application. Late afternoon, early evening watering enhances disease.

- Submitted by: Dr. Gail Schumann