FUNGICIDES - information to consider
- We make every effort to avoid the use of fungicides to treat fungal infections, as repeated use can make the grass plant dependent on fungicide application.
- Fungicides are under constant scrutiny for adverse environmental impact, and this is important to consider when thinking about using them.
- Regular aeration, scarifying and organic feeding will significantly reduce the occurrence and impact of fungal infections.
Fungal Disease Cycle
The Pathogens that cause diseases are always around and often laying dormant in the thatch layers waiting for the ideal conditions to become active. Once these spores are activated and have found an acceptable host they are able to grow and reproduce themselves, spreading new spores and infections to other areas of turf. This cycle continues whilst the right conditions prevail. The following conditions will favour and provide the right environment for disease attack:
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Cool / warm temperatures
- Moist / wet surfaces
- Over watering
- Close mowing
- Shade
- Poor air movement
- Susceptible grass species
- High soil pH
Integrated Disease Management
The fungal pathogen has a disease life cycle which continues when conditions are favourable. Understanding this cycle will enable you to understand how the pathogen can be controlled by effective management to break the cycle of disease.
The disease triangle is a concept of plant pathology. And is
based on the principle that disease is the result of an interaction
between a host, a potential pathogen, and the environment or
weather conditions. Plant disease is prevented by elimination of
any one of these three causal components.
Keeping the sward healthy and reducing the conditions that
favour this disease will be the first priority to keep this disease
from your turf. The following actions should help you achieve this:
- Carry out programmes of aeration to help keep the surface free draining.
- Inspect and monitor existing surface water drainage systems; ensure that they are working.
- Prevent moist conditions remaining on the surface by brushing or sweeping.
- Apply a balanced fertiliser to keep the sward healthy.
- Control thatch layers as thatch provides a good environment for the disease. (Reduction of thatch by hollow coring and scarification).
- Remove clippings.
- Maintain Soil pH between 5.8-6.5; do not allow the soil to become alkaline.
- Check mowing heights and keep blades sharp
- Be vigilant and treat the disease early to prevent severe attacks. Treat with approved fungicides.
- Reduce shade
