Red Thread

Red thread can infect turfgrass at any time of the year but is most common during extended periods of humid, rainy weather in late spring and early summer.

Red thread symptoms include pink or reddish distinct spots or circular patches on leaves, leaf sheaths and stems of turfgrasses, and in some cases can kill the entire plant. Occasionally, white to pink fungal flocks can develop on infected canopies.

While the disease is typically associated with having insufficient nitrogen, it can still infect healthy turf and spread to other areas through mowers and foot traffic, causing severe thinning and promoting weed growth.

The following best practices can help prevent and control red thread on your turf:

• Maintaining adequate, but not excessive, nitrogen fertility
• Reducing shade
• Increasing air circulation
• Improving water drainage