Stains in the lawn are unsightly to look at. Fungal infestation is often the cause. The species infest grasses when they are weak and suffering from suboptimal care. A lack of nutrients or drought improve the growth conditions for fungal spores.
Fungal diseases in the lawn are no joy
snow mold
The gray-brown and rotten spots in the lawn reach sizes between five and 25 centimeters. Over time, the areas grow together and the gray to pink-colored mycelium of the fungus Fusarium nivale can be seen at the edges. An infestation often occurs in September or spring, when cool temperatures below ten degrees in combination with high humidity prevail. If there is snow cover over a long period of time, the growth of the fungus is also encouraged.
preventive measures
Avoid waterlogging and excessive moisture in the lawn. By scarifying and sanding you improve the aeration of the top layer of soil. Autumn fertilization with substances containing potassium and magnesium strengthens grass growth and makes it more resistant to fungal attack in the cold season. When temperatures rise in spring, the fungus automatically recedes. The grass grows back and fills in the gaps. If the lawn does not grow through on larger areas, you can sow new lawn seed on the bare spots.
red point
Laetisaria fuciformis develops red threads on the affected leaf tips. The fungus needs high humidity and temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees. Therefore, this lawn disease occurs mainly in summer and autumn. The fungus is considered a weakness parasite and attacks undernourished grasses. In the advanced stage of infestation, the lawn appears mottled yellow.
How to proceed:
- apply a long-term fertilizer directly
- Apply four to six grams of nitrogen per square meter
- Dispose of lawn clippings in household waste
lawn rust
Various species of the genus Puccinia cause yellow nests in the lawn. Yellow-brown to black pustules can be seen on the grass. Since the lawn disease spreads in a warm climate with 20 to 30 degrees and drought, you should pay attention to a balanced water supply. A slow-release fertilizer makes the grass species more robust.
dollar patches
Sclerotinia homoeocarpa causes well-defined, coin-sized spots. These appear pale and have a white mycelium growing through them. This perennial spot disease occurs more often at high summer temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees in very closely clipped lawns. The formation of dew at night promotes fungal growth, as does a lack of nutrients and dry soil.
You can do that
Drought stress is detrimental to plant health, making grasses more susceptible to fungal diseases. Smaller areas should also be watered regularly during hot periods. Thoroughly water the lawn in the morning hours. Make sure there is a sufficient supply of nutrients and, if necessary, remove thatch with a scarifier.(84.00€)
tips
Cap mushrooms are not dangerous for the lawn. Their spores are airborne and germinate on contact with the ground when conditions are optimal. Regular scarifying removes the growth basis for the fungi.