Fungi Disease

• Spores
  
  A fungus is the most common type of lawn diseases. It is a microscopic and thread-like organism transferred by air or by water as a spore. The fungus spore is similar to a seed, in that it grows and spreads when the environment is favorable. The spore produces new infections and diseases acting as a pathogen on a susceptible host, such as bluegrass, when the temperature, moisture, water, light, and other nutrients for the fungus to grow are favorable.
  
  

Life Cycle

• Fairy Ring Mushrooms
  
  Tiny spores released by fungi fruiting structures spread by air or water to their new sites. When the environmental conditions are favorable, the spores germinate and send out hyphae, which are long, thin filaments. Hyphae cause woods, fallen leaves and other organic matters to decompose, which they also feed on. Hyphae are visible when they are in groups or clusters. However, a single hypha is hard to see without an aid of a magnifying glass. The hyphae develop into a mycelium, characterized by a mass of white or dark threadlike growth. Mycelia, plural for mycelium, turn into mushrooms when conditions are favorable, such as in prolonged wet or damp conditions. These mushrooms then bear fruits that carry spores to repeat the cycle.
  
  

Diagnosis

• It is somewhat difficult to diagnose lawn diseases. In order to diagnose a fungal disease on lawns, one must check on some key factors and symptoms. Check for any sign of grass discoloration and if the grass is dying even with regular watering and fertilize applications. Look for specific spots that may indicate presence of fungi. Check the quality of the root system when you see some superficial signs to see the extent of the damage. Have a record of leaf color, growth characteristics, time of the year and the temperature when the fungi disease developed. Include in your record logs the treatments used, such as fertilizers and herbicides. Include on the records the schedule of mowing and watering, as well as, the mowing height and the amount of water given each time.