Red leaf spot
Drechslera erythrospila
A Helminthosporium-type leaf spot of bentgrass causing reddish lesions and thinning.
Identification
Small reddish-brown to purple leaf lesions that enlarge; severe infection thins turf into irregular reddish patches on greens and tees.
Symptoms
Reddish-brown to purple leaf lesions. Reddish cast to thinning patches. Worst in warm, humid weather
Signs
Small reddish-brown to purple leaf lesions that enlarge; severe infection thins turf into irregular reddish patches on greens and tees.
Biology
Red leaf spot is caused by Drechslera erythrospila, a foliar pathogen that infects leaf blades and produces reddish-brown to purple lesions under warm, humid, leaf-wetness-favorable conditions.
Epidemiology
Warm, humid weather with extended leaf wetness; lush growth from excess nitrogen.
Favorable Conditions
Warm, humid weather with extended leaf wetness; lush growth from excess nitrogen.
Cultural Management
Avoid excess nitrogen and extended leaf wetness. Improve air movement and drainage
Further Reading
University extension resources — open in a new tab.
Related Reports
No published reports yet for this pest.
Reports will appear here as they are peer-reviewed and published.