Lawn Disease
Most turf diseases are caused by the group of plants known as fungi, which are organisms which mainly feed, and live, on dead organic matter. However, some fungi are ‘parasitic’, meaning that they live on healthy plants and it is these parasitic fungi which cause the most problems on domestic lawns.
Below are a few of the more common diseases that can be found on lawns. This is not an exhaustive list and your local operator will be able to advise further.
Red Thread
This disease can be seen throughout the summer months during periods of high humidity. The occurrence of the disease is most evident after periods of wet weather, especially towards the end of summer, when humidity is high.
The lawn will begin to show small patches of grey-brown turf initially; on closer inspection the grass plant will have small, red ‘needles’ protruding from the diseased leaf.
For more information please download our Red Thread Rule of Thumb.
Fairy Ring
Fairy rings are found in turf all over the world and can be seen as complete circles, ribbons, or arcs of stimulated grass growth which may or may not be associated with bare areas of turf and toadstools.
Fusarium Patch
This is another very common lawn disease, seen mainly, but not exclusively, during the autumn and winter months. Symptoms appear as small, circular, yellow patches which spread up to about 30cm in diameter. Once established, the patches turn a yellow/brown colour and in severe cases can kill the grass.
Other diseases that can be found in a lawn include Dollar Spot, Leaf Spot and Slime Mould. In all cases, your local expert will be able to identify and recommend a course of treatment.
