Fusarium Patch


​Fusarium is caused by the fungus Microdochium nivale. It is one of the most damaging diseases of turf grasses and can be difficult to control. It is found most frequently during autumn, winter and early spring, but attacks can occur at any time of the year.

Symptoms of Fusarium
  • The disease is first noticed as small patches of yellowish, dying grass that later turn brown
  • During wet conditions a white cottony fungal growth may be noticed, particularly at the margins of the patch.
Controlling Fusarium 
  • Ensure that the lawn dries rapidly after dews or rainfall by improving the aeration and drainage. This can be done by a combination of scarifying, spiking and aerating.
  • Improve general airflow over the lawn by pruning back overhanging trees or shrubs
  • Remove heavy dews in the morning.
  • Apply a balanced proprietary autumn lawn feed.
  • Apply a specific fungicide but be careful not to apply more than twice a year as there is a risk of the lawn developing dependence.
  • Fungicide is best used as a last resort and in conjunction with the other control methods detailed above.