Red Thread & Rust

Red Thread 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.

Although high humidity is the main cause of Red Thread, it can also be seen in lawns that are suffering from plant stress.  This is usually caused by:

• poor cutting regime
• drought
• thatch
• compaction
• lack of feeding

For more information please download our Red Thread Rule of Thumb (PDF format).


Rust
This is possibly one of the oldest known turf diseases.  It attacks the leaf plant and causes extensive damage.  It rarely attacks the whole plant, so recovery is usually good.

This disease thrives on plants suffering from stress, and is most prevalent in autumn or early spring, when the weather is warm and wet.

If your lawn is looking under the weather, tired and not the right colour, speak to your local GreenThumb expert who will be able to offer solutions and great advice.