Lawn Disease Management

The most common UK lawn disease, caused by the fungus, microdochium nivale. Cool and wet conditions are favoured by this fungus and also grasses which are weak as a result of lack of nutrition. All UK grasses can succumb to fusarium patch but the disease is normally seen first in Poa annua due to its shallow rooting. Initial infections are small but these can rapidly enlarge.

The disease can be recognised by the white or pink gossamer like mycelium on the leaf surface.

Control: Fusarium can be controlled by the application of an appropriate fungicide.

This phenomenon occurs in the root zone of the lawn; the material making up the root zone becomes hydrophobic or water repellent. Dry patch normally occurs during the summer and early autumn; it can be prevented or the symptoms controlled.

The disease can be recognised by the white or pink gossamer like mycelium on the leaf surface.

Control: Dry Patch can be controlled by the application of an appropriate surfactant; aeration will also improve water penetration.

Rust can attack all UK lawn grasses, but is particularly attracted to perennial ryegrass and Poa pratensis. It can occur throughout the year but is normally seen during early summer to late autumn during mild humid weather.

Rust is easy to identify. The affected grass appears rust coloured due to the spores present on the leaf.

Control: Rust can be controlled by aeration and depending on the conditions, a light application of fertiliser. Increasing your mowing height and frequency will also aid recovery.