How should leafspot and melting out diseases be managed in turf?

• A. Mow very short
• B. Increase nitrogen
• C. Apply fungicide weekly
• D. Mow at a high height to limit stress

Answer: (D)

Leafspot and melting out are stresses that fungi exploit when turf is weakened. The most effective way to reduce these diseases is to minimize plant stress, and mowing at a higher height is a simple, strong cultural practice to do that. Keeping the leaf blades longer reduces tissue damage from mowing, supports better energy reserves in the crown, and helps the turf recover more quickly after infection. Healthier, less-stressed turf is better able to resist infection and rebound if disease occurs.

Other approaches shown in options are not as effective as a cultural strategy. Mowing very short increases stress and makes the turf more susceptible to diseases. Increasing nitrogen often promotes lush, soft growth that favors pathogens. Applying fungicides weekly is not a sustainable preventive strategy and can lead to resistance and unnecessary costs; use fungicides judiciously and in response to actual disease pressure, not as a routine.