Fungal Diseases in Winter Lawns in the Low Desert

HOST: Winter Lawns

SYMPTOMS:

Turf dies in patches

CAUSE:

Over watering which leads to succulent growth, becomes worse as warm weather promotes even more soft growth.

MANAGEMENT:
Prevention

• Minimize watering frequency to slow succulent growth

• DO NOT water at night. Moisture and cool temperatures invite fungal diseases.

• DO NOT over water or over fertilize as this will encourage rapid succulent growth which is vulnerable to fungal diseases.

• Mow winter lawns when grass is dry to minimize spread of disease.
  By wounding the plant (mowing) while it is wet you increase the likelihood of fungal infection. In addition, you increase the likelihood of spreading the fungus on the tires of the mower and on your shoes

Promptly treat with recommended fungicides.

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