Fusarium Patch
Causal Agent
Microdochium nivale
What is Fusarium Patch?
Fusarium patch is a type of fungal disease in turf caused by Microdochium nivale. Fusarium patch appears as circular, water-soaked spots, usually 5cm in diameter. As the disease develops, the spots may enlarge but are usually less than 20cm in diameter.
What are the Symptoms of Fusarium Patch?
Symptoms of Fusarium patch disease include:
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Circular patches appear as small, water-soaked spots less than 5cm in diameter.
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Patches change in colour from orange-brown to dark brown and finally to a light grey.
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Spots may enlarge indefinitely, but are usually less than 20cm in diameter.
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On low cut turf a halo-like “smoke ring”may appear on the outer margin of the patch. The outer ring may have a water-soaked appearance.
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In very wet conditions a thin to fluffy covering of white mycelium may be seen on matted leaves.
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The mycelium is white, but on exposure to sunlight induces spore production which is a pink colour
Fusarium Patch INFO SHEETWhen does Fusarium Patch disease occur?
The general conditions that are favourable for Fusarium Patch are:
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More than 10 hours a day of foliar wetness for several consecutive days.
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Cool temperatures.
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Soil high in nitrogen fertility and low phosphorous and potassium.
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Areas with slow growing conditions and heavy thatch.
What turfgrasses are especially susceptible to Fusarium Patch?
Wintergrass, Bentgrass, Fescue, Ryegrass & Kentucky Bluegrass are particularly susceptible to Fusarium patch.
What can I do to manage or control Fusarium Patch?
Management practices that can help control or reduce instances of Drechslera include:
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Maintaining balance fertility.
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Avoiding using lime. Alkaline soils enhance disease development.
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Maintaining low soil pH.
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Using slow release fertilisers when fertilising in Autumn.
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Increasing air circulation to speed turf’s drying process.
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Minimising the amount of shade.
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Avoiding excessive thatch.
