What Is Microdochium Patch and How Do You Prevent It on Turf?

Microdochium patch (Microdochium nivale) is a disease on fine turf surfaces. It is the most common turf disease in the UK and Ireland.

The disease occurs late autumn and early spring during cool humid weather, high nitrogen fertility and on thatchy poorly drained soil. The disease is discouraged by high potash and sulphate levels and acidic conditions. The main symptom is rapidly developing circular patches of 25-50mm diameter.

Leaves become brown and mushy. Sometimes pink or white cobweb-like fungal threads can be seen in early morning. To control Microdochium patch – promote good turf management.

Your aim is to promote healthy, vigorous growth. Fescue and Browntop bents are much more resistant to the  disease. Moisture control to avoid humid surface conditions will do much to prevent disease attack.

Regular aeration and careful application of fertilisers with an appropriate sandy topdress will make the surface less moisture-retentive. Reducing water holding thatch is also beneficial. The return of clippings provides a substrate for disease development, so catch and remove the grass. Care should be taken when applying fertilisers as excessive nitrogen combined with cool wet weather can lead to severe disease outbreaks.