Puccina & Uromyces spp.

Description:

Early infection appears as a Light yellow flecking of the leaves. As these flecks enlarge the spores which are orange in colour protrude from the infected foliage resulting in a "rust colour" visual to the naked eye. The orange pustules of spores become somewhat longer than broad and when numerous they are arranged in rows parallel with the veins of the leaves.

Favourable conditions:

Temperature for onset of the disease is between 18 to 30 degrees celcius when the turf is not growing rapidly. Susceptible turf: Warm- and cool-season turfgrass species and varieties. Common on ryegrass and some zoysia species where growth is not as fast as other species of turf.

Damage:

The damage can be visible within small clumps of turf to complete swards of lawn. In severe cases the disease can thin the turfgrass sward and the foliage can also become chlorotic.

Control options:

• Pesticides: See available tabs below for registered products. Use as per label instructions.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Use a combination of approaches listed on this page.
• Cultural:
  • Prolonged leaf wetness will increase infection.
  • Increase nitrogen.
  • Reduce shade and improve air circulation if possible.
  • Clippings can be mown/cut, removed, bagged and binned.
  • Wash machinery and equipment after mowing or maintaining affected turfgrass.
  • Water deeply and infrequently.
• Mechanical: Undertake routine aeration practices.

Disclaimer:

Turf Finder or its developer accepts with no responsibility for any consequences whatsoever resulting from the use of any information or product(s) listed herein. Products are to be applied as per label instructions.