White Fungus Problem With Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding is the process of utilizing a high pressure hose to distribute a mix of seed and liquid mulch over an area. When white fungus begins to display on grass that has been hydroseeded, an advanced case of damping-off disease probably is under way. Proper cultural control with an emphasis on keeping the grass dry helps to keep this disease manageable. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Damping-Off Disease
-
Damping-off diseases caused by fungi of the families Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium produce a white fungus when hydroseeding. As the process of hydroseeding occurs continually throughout the year, regular applications of fertilizer provide a succulent grass that easily attracts the fungi. Warm, wet conditions contribute to the development of a cottony, white fungus on turf grass that seldom displays in the fall or spring but is prevalent in the summer months.
Effects
-
Fungi are encouraged to develop by the presence of waterlogged turf and excessive fertilization. It encourages the growth of dense grass, promotes an environment that prevents moisture from escaping and leads to white fungus growth. The grass seedling may take on a slimy feel, then collapse and die. The fungus is especially easy to see in the early morning when dew covers the grass. In some cases, the decaying tissue forms into a type of crust that covers the grass.
-
Cultural Control
-
The best way to manage a white fungus problem with hydroseeding is to find the fine balance of cultural conditions that allows the grass to germinate and grow while discouraging the presence of fungi. Hydroseeding in the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler is an ideal setting for the growth of grass and is also a time when fungi are less likely to attack. Gardeners should avoid utilizing an excessive amount of mulch.
Chemical Control
-
White fungus growth may be controlled by three fungicidal techniques: one treatment before seeding, spraying immediately after seeding or direct application to new grass seedlings. The type of grass seeded, the specific fungal pathogen, the amount of seed applied and the environment in which the hydroseeding is under way all play a part in determining specific fungicidal management plans. An accurate diagnosis of exactly which fungus is responsible is important in choosing the proper fungicide.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Pixland/Pixland/Getty Images
