Anthracnose

Anthracnose attacks grass plants (normally only Poa annua) when they are under environmental stress.
Disease triggered by low nutrition and compaction leading to reduced turf vigour.
Once disease reaches basal rot stage fungicides are no longer effective for control of disease but should be applied to prevent further attack.

Approach

Turf should have sufficient nutritional input coming into the end of the growing season.
Using a slow release fertilizer late in the season ensures that adequate nutrition is in the soil to promote a healthy turf.
Avoid low heights of cut.
Minimise mechanical cultivation during periods of stress.
Aerate to relieve compaction and improve oxygen levels.
Minimise Poa annua population in sward.
Over-seed with less susceptible varieties.
Irrigate in the morning to minimise long periods of leaf wetness over night.
Use penetrant wetting agents to move water through soil profile and to keep surface dry.
Use fungicides as part of an IPM programme and be aware of causing resistance to one chemical group by its regular use.