Golf Solutions – Microdochium Patch

Microdochium patch (Monographella nivalis, formerly Microdochium nivale) can be a tough problem on coolseason turf in late winter through early summer. This disease is also known as “Fusarium patch” in older references or as “pink snow mould,” though it can develop when snow is absent.

What to look for

Symptoms start off on turf as small water-soaked spots with a dark brown appearance. This expands and turns tan in the center with a red-brown or dark, greasy-appearing margin. Fluffy white mycelia can often be observed at the edge of the patches, and dead tissue is sometimes covered by pink spore masses. Wet conditions and daytime temperatures from just above freezing to 18°C favour this disease, and explosive outbreaks can occur under suitable temperatures and extended periods of overcast, foggy or wet weather. It is most common on cool-season turf, especially annual bluegrass. This disease is favoured in shaded or poorly drained locations and excessive nitrogen fertility conditions.

New for 2025:

• Signature^® XTRA Stressgard^® fungicide now labelled for Microdochium patch control.
• 60g on seven or 14–21 day intervals.
• The only phosphonate in Canada labelled for CONTROL of Microdochium patch.
• Fame^® SC is also a prime choice for the control of Microdochium patch. An excellent partner, rotate Fame SC 11.5 mL/100 m2 with other FRAC groups.

Envu solutions

Cultural practices that reduce leaf wetness duration such as dew whipping and rolling have shown to contribute to disease reduction. Continue fall mowing so that turf does not become matted, creating a favourable disease environment. Using a programmed approach that starts in the fall is your best defense.

Michrodochium fungi start reproducing in the fall, well before the final snow mould app is put down. This is why it’s vital to knock down that growing mycelium before it reaches the disease threshold. Research shows that a primer or going-in clean app about three weeks before the final app is important for disease control. If possible, two apps, 14–21 days apart, before the final app is optimal for cutting back mycelium reproduction dramatically.

Fame SC and Signature XTRA Stressgard fungicides are outstanding solutions for Microdochium patch, both providing excellent preventive and curative activity. Fame and Signature XTRA can also help turf recover from pink snow mould damage following snow melt. Combining these two modes of action can provide exceptional Microdochium patch and snow mould protection for Canadian climates.

Apply Signature XTRA Stressgard at 60g and 120–200g per 100 m2 as a preventative or spring curative treatment on 7- or 14–21-day intervals. Fame SC can be applied at 11.5 mL per 100 m2 prior to snow cover, as well as mixed with other active ingredients (Fludioxinil and a DMI) in the final snow mould app for superior control. During periods of high disease pressure, consider tank-mixing Fame and Mirage^® Stressgard^® with a contact fungicide as a final app.

No matter what kind of turf problems you’re up against, Envu has a full range of solutions to help you take control and maintain it.

For more information about Microdochium patch, download the solution sheet or contact your local Territory Sales Manager for brown patch control strategies specific to your needs.

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