Snow thaw reveals Fusarium attack
As the recent snow cover recedes, turf managers can expect to
see new Fusarium Patch infections breaking out, as a result of the
high risk conditions for the disease developing under the snow
blanket. The pathogen is frequently referred to as 'Pink Snow
Mould'; a testament to its thriving in the unique microclimate
under snow.
The snow blanket effectively insulates the turf sward, creating
humid conditions conducive to the development of the
pathogen, Michrodocium nivale, warns Syngenta
Technical Manager, Dr Simon Watson. "The thaw typically coincides
with rising temperatures that can trigger Fusarium outbreaks.
Furthermore, as the snow melts the turf leaf remains constantly wet
for prolonged periods, which are ideal conditions for the
disease."
Dr Watson advocates that with the high risk turf managers will
need to get an effective protectant and curative contact fungicide
into place as soon as possible. "Quick action with an
application of Daconil Weather Stik as soon as conditions allow,
preferably before the first signs of infection are visible, could
help prevent loss of turf quality and damage to the playing
surface.
"But with infection breaking out, the key advantage with Daconil
Weather Stik is that it can also effectively protect clean turf
surrounding areas already with visible symptoms of Fusarium Patch
disease. Protecting uninfected turf will help to stop small spots
coalescing into patches, which could seriously affect playing
surfaces and leave them more vulnerable to further winter damage.
If the pathogen is allowed to develop and lesions break out at this
time of year, it could take weeks or months to repair the
damage."
Independent STRI trials over different seasons have shown
Daconil Weather Stik applied at the first signs of Fusarium
infection has stopped disease spread and given an average 87%
reduction in infection compared to untreated, demonstrating the
powerful curative control.
Assessments of turf quality during STRI trials have shown
Daconil Weather Stik increased turf quality by more than 40% over
the treatment programme (below), compared to just 5% improvement
with iprodione.
"Turf managers should keep a close watch on the GreenCast web
site disease risk forecasts over the coming weeks, for advance
warning of Fusarium attacks. Well timed applications at periods of
medium or high risk disease predictions, but before any visible
signs of disease, have been shown to achieve an average 95% control
of infection," added Dr Watson. "Action now will give the best
possible results."