Thatch Collapse Disease

The fungus pathogen that causes this disease is Sphaerobolus stellatus, a basidiomycete. Generally occurs on greens mown at very low cutting height. The main symptoms are small depressions in the greens, which are greener when mown at a higher height, with a healthy white crown. Sometimes mycelium can be seen below these depressions.

There is evidence on Agrostis greens, Poa annuaand have even been seen in Australia and New Zealand on Bermuda greens.

A common feature of all diagnosed samples is the presence of high amounts of organic matter.

The recommended strategy is proper organic matter management and thatch control, including intense receipts y aerification. In terms of fungicide uses, there is still little data, although those that control fungicides are recommended. fairy ringas they are also basidiomycetes. The difficulty lies in being able to introduce the chemical into the soil, which is where the mycelium is present.