Turf melting out (original) (raw)

Turf melting out is caused by the fungal pathogen Dreschlera poae, in the family Pleosporaceae. It is a common problem on turfgrass and affects many different species. The disease infects all parts of the plant most commonly on golf course roughs, sports fields, and home lawns. There are two stages of the disease: the leaf blade infection and the crown and root infection Melting out occurs during the cool weather of April and May and is encouraged by high nitrogen fertility. The disease is spread by wind-blown or water splashed spores and survive in thatch.