Are You Seeing Red In Your Lawn?

We are seeing a significant amount of Red Thread disease from Norristown to Flourtown.  Red Thread is typically the first disease we see in the Spring.  It's pretty easy to identify, once correctly identified, knowing how to manage it will help your lawn recover and reduce the likelihood of future red thread outbreaks.

Red Thread may appear first in areas with nitrogen deficiencies.

The disease spreads throughout the lawn in the form of spores. These spores are spread by wind, air, water and humans. The disease may be caused by improper mowing and watering.

Red Thread attacks most types of grass but is generally found on lawns that contain high proportions of the fescue species.

Applying additional nitrogen can help grow the disease out, however, too much nitrogen can cause a litany of other disease problems that could be far worse.  Apply the proper amount is important.  Also, taking a light leaf rake to the red patches can help dry the area out which will help slow down the process.  As always, maintaining a proper thatch level and using resistant varieties is a good long term strategy for the fall.