What is Fusarium Fungal Infection

If your lawn is developing relatively small yellow patches, which in a short period of time grow in size and merge together, changing to a darker brown colour, your lawn might well be infected with Fusarium patch.

Fusarium patch is a common fungal disease that attacks annual meadow grass (Poa annual), but can also affect fescues (Festuca species), bents (Agrostis species), and perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne).

The fungus Monographella nivalis (formally Fusarium nivale) is one of the most damaging soil-based fungi of turfgrasses and it can be hard to control. It is most frequently an issue on our lawns throughout Autumn and the colder Winter months. It can be triggered by heavy frosts and snow, hence the often used name, “Snow mold”.  Having said this it can be a problem on lawns at any time of the year.  It has been detected in the warmer months but a more rapid lawn growth is usually enough to keep the disease under control, it is more of an issue when the weather cools and grass growth slows.

The fungus requires surface moisture to infect the plant and soils that have a particular Alkaline PH level are more susceptible to Fusarium. The Fungus is considered to be soil borne (meaning transmitted in or by soil), but will also survive on infected plants. It can be a stubborn problem that can survive temperatures of -20C and when the fungus decides conditions are favourable, usually between 12-19C,  it will begin to grow and become a real issue for your lawn. Initially, this growth is slow and can go undetected for several weeks, but once the conditions are right for the fungus it will spread very quickly. A lawn that looks green and healthy one minute can soon have the noticeable effects of Fusarium in as little as 24 hours.

If you suspect that your lawn is infected with Fusarium why not take advantage of the Lawnscience lawn review service. One of our fully trained lawn care professionals will be happy to arrange a lawn review with you, during which they will identify the issue(s) and provide you with a fully costed solution for you to consider. To take advantage of this opportunity just click on the Help Please orange button below

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