Red Thread (Laetisaria fuciformis) is a disease that can occur in the spring and fall during humid periods when the air temperatures are between 50 - 70 degrees F. Fine-leaved fescues and some ryegrasses are particularly susceptible to this disease. The disease has been showing up more and more over the past few weeks because of the weather conditions we have been having. One of the major causes of Red Thread is prolonged leaf wetness caused by humidity, dew and rain.

Red Thread most often develops in circular or irrigular patches from 4 inches to 2 feet in diameter. This area may grow after the turf has prolonged exposure to the disease. The affected leaves in these patches can be tan or bleached-white in color. From a distance, the patches can have a reddish appearance, due to the presence of thick, red strands of fungal growth emanating from the affected leaves. The damage caused by Red Thread is usually superficial as the crown and root systems are not infected. In most cases the turf will eventually grow through the damage.

If you believe you have a case of Red Thread you have two options, you can wait for the weather to change to a warmer drier climate (in which case the disease will die off on its own) or you can have your lawn treated by  Purely Organic Lawn Care, a GA business partner. Purely Organic has a product that treats Red Thread. The cost of the application is the same as a regular fertilizer application. Remember Green Alliance members receive 20% off a yearly treatment plan at Purely Organic, that is a savings of $240 a year, so join the GA now!