Common Name: Red Thread
Scientific Name: Laetisaria fuciformis
Red thread develops in circular or irregular patches from 4 inches to 2 feet in diameter. Affected leaves within these patches are tan or bleached-white in color. From a distance, the patches usually have a reddish appearance, due to the presence of thick, red strands of fungal growth emanating from the affected leaves. It is through production of these “red threads” that the fungus spreads to healthy plants and survives unfavorable conditions. Small tufts of pink, fuzzy mycelium may also be present in or around the patches when the leaves are wet or humidity is high. After prolonged periods of disease development, the patches may merge to produce large irregularly shaped areas of damaged turf.
Disease control practices by the homeowner create favorable conditions for a healthy lawn, and often create unfavorable conditions for the growth of Red Thread. Mowing turf frequently at the proper height with a sharp blade, maintaing adequate levels of nitrogen and a balanced fertility program, reducing shade and increasing air flow, and infrequent deep watering can all help create unfavorable conditions for the development of Red Thread.If you think your lawn has developed Red Thread, give Fowler and Sons a call. We can come out to confirm the identity of the disease and recommend the best action to take care of it
