Take-all of Turf
Gaeumannomyces graminis var. avenae

Names:

Ophiobolus Patch is derived from its previous Latin name Ophiobolus graminus.

Description:

A fungal disease of turf that causes large, yellow to brown circular patches in turf that show with the first hot days of spring. The roots are rotted and stunted and the symptoms of yellowing and browning are due to water stress. Grass on the edges may be a red orange colour and that in the centre may die or grow poorly and be invaded by weeds.

Species Affected:

Turf, cereals.

Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera) is very susceptible and a primary host.

Biology:

Heavy liming may induce the disease.

Life Cycle:

Origin and History:

Distribution:

More common on limestone soils, low organic matter soils or those with poor nutrient balance.

Significance:

Management and Control:

Use acidifying fertiliser such as ammonium sulphate.

Improve drainage.

Use coarse grades of lime.

Some new fungicides are showing some action on this disease.

Related and Similar Species:

Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis causes root decline of warm season turf affecting Couch (Cynodon dactylon) and Kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum) mainly.

References:

1205

Acknowledgments:

Collated by HerbiGuide. Phone 08 98444064 for more information.