Causal Agent: Mucilago spp., Didymium spp. & Physarum spp.
Susceptible Turfgrasses: All turfgrass species.
Symptoms
-
Fruiting bodies may smother grass blades turning them grey, pink, purple, white or yellow.
-
Affected turf forms rings up to 60cm in diameter as the Slime Mould grows outwards.
-
No immediate damage to turfgrass is evident as slime moulds are not plant parasitic.
-
Fruiting bodies may become so thick on leaf blades that they may reduce the photosynthetic ability of individual leaves.
-
The rings normally disappear within 2 weeks.
Conditions Favouring Disease
-
Excessive thatch favours slime mould development.
-
High levels of soil organic matter are a food source for Slime Mould so contribute to a favourable environment.
-
Cool, wet, humid weather is ideal for fruiting body development.
-
High cut, unmaintained turfgrass with infrequent mowing.