How To Manage Fescues’ Common Diseases?

Answer 1

Fescues, a relatively common variety of lawn and forage grasses, are typically found in cool temperate regions. The northern United States and Canada have abundant amounts of fescues growing. Fescues can typically blend well with other varieties of grass and are a durable contributor to any lawn. However, a number of common diseases can damage fescues. Among these are brown patch, gray leaf spot, and pythium blight.

Brown patch, as the name implies, is marked by brown-colored spottiness on a fescue lawn. It typically strikes during extended periods of damp or wet ground. Brown patch is at its most severe when night temperatures reach a low of 70 degrees and a high of ninety degrees. Countermeasures to brown patch include proper drainage of the infected area and fungicides.

Gray leaf spot is a persistent problem among fescues in the southeastern United States. Although it can be destructive when newly established, as the fescue matures, gray leaf spot typically becomes less of a problem. As the name suggest, gray leaf spot produces small markings on the leafs of infected fescue. Gray leaf spot is a less consistent problem in fescues, and resistance to it tends to lower the resistance to brown patch. Treatment includes fungicides and promoting the rapid maturity of fescues.

Pythium blight tends to be a bit more uncommon than brown patch, but brings far greater destructive potential. Hot and humid weather conditions produce sunken patches on the fescue, as though it was firmly tamped down. Pythium blight has a rapid growth rate and can produce considerable damage. Preventive fungicide should be utilized if the weather conditions allow. Additionally, clean any infected lawn waste from shoes or mowing equipment to reduce the possible spread. Pythium blight can be easily carried from location to location unintentionally.

With constant observation and correct diagnosis, fescues can be easily maintained. Most fescues can be treated for disease with consistent and proper lawn care techniques. Fungicides may also be applied at opportune times. The popularity of fescues for both lawn and livestock is continuing to expand. It is likely fescues of all varieties will become more common as newer breeds are developed.