Pythium Root Rot

Pythium Root Rot (Root Dysfunction) is common on highly maintained turf, such as golf course greens. Although symptoms of Pythium Root Rot are typically non-distinctive, this disease can appear as yellow, irregularly shaped patches.

The affected turfgrass is thin, off-colour, and slow growing, while the root system is stunted with reduced volume and vigour. Foliar mycelium does not occur.

Caused by: Pythium aphanidermatum, Pythium aristosporum, Pythium graminicola, Pythium vanterpooli, other Pythium species.

Susceptible Turfgrass: Species grown on putting greens, such as Annual Bluegrass, Bentgrass, and Bermudagrass.

Conditions favouring Disease:

Some Pythium species favour temperatures between 0°C and 10°C while others thrive in temperatures between 21°C and 32°C. Pythium root rot occurs in
areas with high soil moisture, poor drainage, and low light. It also infects locations with low mowing height and excessive wear.

Integrated Turf Management:

• Increase the height of cut.
• Apply optimum amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potash.
• Reduce mowing frequency and use lightweight mowers.
• Avoid overwatering.
• Apply low amounts of nitrogen in the Spring when roots are forming.
• Minimise the amount of shade.
• Improve the drainage of the turf.
• Reduce soil compaction.
• Apply penetrant fungicides on a preventive basis.

Fungicidal Control:
Heritage has label recommendation for Pythium Root Rot in the United Arab Emirates.