Fusarium Patch

Fusarium Patch is the commonest fungal disease in British lawns.

The first signs of trouble are small areas of orange/brown grass. As the patches increase in size, the central area becomes paler in colour and may become slimy to the touch due to the release of its spores. The outer margin of the patches remains dark brown whilst the disease is active.

In moist weather, a whitish mould develops on the affected grass. To confirm identification, cover a brown patch overnight and inspect. The growth of mould indicates that the disease is present and should be treated.

Fusaruim Patch disease is favoured by humid atmospheric conditions i.e. persistent drizzle or fog, and a moist turf surface. Therefore, any area of turf which is poorly drained will be prone to the disease. Good drainage of the turf will go a long way to preventing this disease.

Regular aeration and careful application of top dressing with a sandy compost will make the surface less moisture retentive. Reduction of water holding thatch by scarification will also be beneficial.

The disease can be treated with fungicide. The fungus can grow quickly, so early treatment is recommended.

After treatment the brown patches will gradually fill in. Beware of broad-leaved weeds or weed grasses becoming established in any of the old patches, and remove any that appear.