Manila grass, also known as Zoysia matrella, is a popular warm-season grass that is commonly used in lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. However, like all plants, Manila grass is susceptible to diseases that can impact its health and appearance. By being able to identify common diseases and knowing how to treat them effectively, you can help ensure that your Manila grass remains vibrant and healthy. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common Manila grass plant diseases, their symptoms, and treatment options.
Anthracnose
Symptoms: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that typically affects the leaves of Manila grass. Symptoms include small, dark spots on the blades of grass that can enlarge and merge to form irregularly shaped lesions. In severe cases, the affected areas may turn yellow or brown and die off.
Treatment: To treat anthracnose, it is important to improve air circulation around the grass by trimming back overhanging branches or reducing thatch buildup. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, but it is essential to follow label instructions carefully.
Brown Patch
Symptoms: Brown patch is another common fungal disease that affects many types of grasses, including Manila grass. Symptoms include circular patches of brown or tan grass with a darker border. The affected areas may wilt and die, leaving behind thin or bare spots in the lawn.
Treatment: To treat brown patch, avoid overwatering the grass and improve drainage in the lawn. Fungicides can be used preventatively or as a curative treatment for brown patch. Additionally, aerating the lawn and fertilizing appropriately can help to prevent the disease from spreading.
Leaf Spot
Symptoms: Leaf spot is caused by various fungal pathogens and is characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves of Manila grass. As the disease progresses, the spots may enlarge and merge together, causing extensive damage to the foliage.
Treatment: To treat leaf spot, remove any affected plant material and maintain proper air circulation around the grass. Fungicides can be used to control leaf spot, but cultural practices such as avoiding overhead watering and reducing thatch buildup are also essential for preventing the disease.
Rust
Symptoms: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or orange pustules to form on the leaves of Manila grass. These pustules can rupture, releasing spores that give the grass a rusty appearance. Severely affected grass may become weak and thin.
Treatment: To treat rust, avoid watering the grass in the late afternoon or evening when humidity levels are high. Fungicides can be used to control rust, but it is crucial to address any underlying issues such as poor soil drainage or nutrient deficiencies that may be contributing to the disease.
Pythium Blight
Symptoms: Pythium blight is a fungal disease that thrives in wet conditions and can quickly spread through a lawn. Symptoms include circular patches of slimy, water-soaked grass that may have a greasy appearance. The affected areas may turn brown and die rapidly.
Treatment: To treat pythium blight, improve drainage in the lawn and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can be used to control the disease, but it is essential to follow label instructions carefully and monitor the lawn closely for signs of reinfestation.
Dollar Spot
Symptoms: Dollar spot is a fungal disease that causes small, silver-dollar-sized patches of bleached or straw-colored grass to form on Manila grass. The affected areas may coalesce to form larger patches over time.
Treatment: To treat dollar spot, avoid mowing the lawn too short and minimize stress on the grass by watering deeply but infrequently. Fungicides can be used to control dollar spot, but proper cultural practices such as fertilizing appropriately and improving air circulation are also important for preventing the disease.
In conclusion, Manila grass plant diseases can present challenges for homeowners and landscapers alike. By being able to identify common diseases such as anthracnose, brown patch, leaf spot, rust, pythium blight, and dollar spot, you can take proactive steps to prevent their spread and minimize damage to your lawn. Implementing proper cultural practices such as regular mowing, appropriate watering, fertilizing, and aerating can help keep your Manila grass healthy and resilient against diseases. If necessary, consult with a professional landscaper or horticulturist for guidance on treatment options specific to your situation. With vigilance and care, you can enjoy a lush and vibrant Manila grass lawn year-round.