Pythium Blight

Common Name

Pythium Blight

Seasons of Activity

Hot, humid or rainy weather.

Areas of Plant Infected

Foliage.

Cultural Methods of Control

Balanced nutrition, increase height of cut, reduce thatch levels, improve drainage.

Scientific Name

Pythium spp.

Key Distinguishing Feature

Pythium blight is most readily recognized as small spots or patches of blighted grass that suddenly appear during warm, wet periods. In the early stages the grass leaves appear water-soaked, slimy (greasy) and dark. As the disease progresses, the leaves shrivel and the patches fade from green to light brown.

Pythium Leaf Blight appears suddenly during hot, humid weather.Patches occur these patches can enlarge at a rapid rate. In the early morning, grass leaves appear water-soaked and dark in patches.

When rubbed between the fingers, these water soaked patches feel oily. Infected leaves become light tan to brown, shriveled and matted when dry.

When humidity remains high, especially at night, the collapsed leaves become matted and covered with a fluffy white mass of fungal mycelium.

Key Products for Control:

Impala - 60mL/100sqm in 5L of water (sprayer only) or 6mL/10sqm in 9L of water (watering can)