Hosts
Red fescue, perennial
ryegrass
Symptoms
Red thread may kill grass in circular to irregular patches 2 to
8 inches (5 - 20 cm) in diameter or it may weaken turf. Leaves turn
tan in color, giving the turf a scorched appearance. Infections on
leaves begin at the tip and move down the blade. A pink web of fungal
threads binds the leaves together. Pink, gelatinous fungal crusts
occur on the leaves.
Conditions favoring disease
Red thread is favored by mild air temperatures (60° to 75°F)
and extended periods of leaf wetness. Plants deficient in nitrogen
during periods of cool temperatures or excess wetness can make the
turf more susceptible to infection. In California it occurs primarily
in northern and central coastal areas.
Prevention and management
Follow proper irrigation and fertilization
requirements for your turf species. Provide adequate air circulation
and reduce shading. Fungicides should not be needed.
For more information on lawn diseases, refer to:
Pest Notes: Lawn Diseases:
Prevention and Management |
