Understanding Fusarium Patch (Pink Patch) in Your Lawn
In the cooler months, normally November to Late February, staying vigilant for Fusarium Patch (also known as Microdochium Patch) and Snow Mold is essential. These common lawn diseases thrive in damp, mild conditions, posing a risk to lawns throughout autumn and winter.
Understanding Fusarium Patch
Fusarium Patch is caused by a fungal pathogen that is present year-round, waiting for ideal conditions to spread. Here’s our quick guide to help you identify and control it effectively between Greener Gardens visits.
Identification
Appearance: Fusarium Patch begins as small, circular patches of brown or yellow grass that can expand to several inches in diameter. Over time, these patches may take on a reddish-brown hue and appear greasy or water-soaked.
Season: This disease is most active in autumn and winter, particularly in high humidity and cool temperatures ranging between 0-15°C.
Location: Fusarium often occurs in shaded areas with poor airflow or where thatch has built up.
Prevention and Control
Aeration: Regularly aerate your lawn to improve airflow and reduce compaction. This keeps the lawn drier and less inviting for fungi.
Thatch Management: Excessive thatch provides a perfect environment for Fusarium to thrive, so regular scarification is key to prevention.
Mowing Height: As winter approaches, raise your mowing height slightly to reduce stress on the grass, which helps it resist disease.
Feed Carefully: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers in late autumn and winter, as they encourage soft, disease-susceptible growth.
Treatment Options
If Fusarium does appear, early intervention is key. An application of iron can help to control the disease, along with cultural practices like scarification and aeration. As part of our commitment to environmentally conscious lawn care, we prioritize treatments that work in harmony with your lawn’s natural defenses.
Managing Fusarium Through Cultural Controls
Cultural controls play an essential role in keeping both Red Thread and Fusarium Patch at bay. By adjusting maintenance practices, you can create conditions that discourage fungal growth. Here are our top cultural controls:
Aeration: Regular aeration improves soil air circulation, reduces compaction, and drains excess moisture, making it harder for fungi to establish.
Thatch Management: Thatch provides an ideal environment for fungal development. Regular scarification helps keep the lawn surface open, reduces moisture buildup, and lowers the risk of infection.
Overseed Some grass species, like perennial ryegrass, are more resistant to diseases like Red Thread and Fusarium. Overseeding with these varieties can strengthen your lawn’s resilience.
Mowing Practices:
Height: Keep the mowing height slightly raised during autumn and winter to reduce stress on the grass. Healthier, thicker turf is more resistant to disease.
Frequency: Avoid mowing in damp or frosty conditions to prevent spreading the disease. Clean mower blades regularly to avoid transferring spores.
Tip: Mow with a sharp blade to prevent tearing grass, which can create entry points for infection.
Cultural Lawn Management:
Balanced Fertilisation: Apply autumn fertilizers with phosphorus and potassium, which improve root strength and disease resistance.
Improve Drainage: In waterlogged areas, consider aeration or even installing drainage to help excess water move away from the lawn.
Reduce Shade and Improve Air Circulation: Fusarium thrives in shaded, poorly ventilated areas. Trim overhanging branches and shrubs to improve airflow, especially in high-risk areas.
Conclusion
By implementing these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of Fusarium Patch and Red Thread, helping your lawn stay strong, healthy, and naturally resistant to fungal diseases. Greener Gardens is here to support you with expert advice and environmentally friendly treatments that promote lasting lawn health.