Lawns, whether ornamental or intended for sports activities, are living spaces that are often put to the test. Among the diseases that can affect them, lawn rust is one of the most common. This disease, caused by microscopic fungi, can quickly compromise the beauty and vitality of the lawn. However, with a good understanding of how it works and targeted actions, it is possible to limit its impact and ensure a healthy and resistant lawn.
What pathogens cause lawn rust?
Turf rust is a fungal disease caused by fungi belonging to the genera Puccinia and Uromyces , both members of the Pucciniaceae family. These pathogens primarily attack grasses. They affect species such as ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass.
Period of appearance and conditions of development
Turf rust typically appears between late spring and early fall , with a notable increase during the fall months when ambient moisture is more persistent.
Temperatures above 18°C ​​combined with prolonged humidity on the leaves (night watering or morning dew) create an environment conducive to its development.
Shaded or overwatered areas, where leaves stay wet for longer, are particularly at risk. A lack of nitrogen in the soil also promotes the onset of the disease, by weakening grasses and reducing their natural resistance to pathogens.
Biological cycle and spread of turf rust
The fungi responsible for the disease survive on living or dead leaves as well as in the thatch of the lawn , creating a permanent reserve of inoculum. During the winter, these pathogens are preserved in the form of mycelium in the soil, which allows them to re-infect the lawn as soon as favorable conditions return in the spring.
Spread is primarily by wind , which carries the spores to other areas. Once deposited on the leaves, these spores take advantage of the presence of liquid water, often from dew or inappropriate watering, to germinate and initiate a new infection.
What are the symptoms of lawn rust?
Rust is first observed by a progressive yellowing of the leaves , which many sometimes confuse with a lack of water or nutrients. As the disease progresses, yellow-orange pustules appear on the leaves, releasing spores that settle on neighboring areas. These pustules give the lawn a characteristic rusty color. In an advanced stage, the affected leaves dry up and fall off, leaving bare patches on the lawn.
What are the effects on green spaces, sports fields and golf courses?
In environments where the visual and functional quality of turf is essential, such as sports fields or golf courses, rust represents a serious threat. In addition to degrading the appearance of the lawn, this disease weakens the grasses ; it reduces their capacity to withstand trampling and mechanical stress. On green spaces, it can cause sparse or bare areas, requiring costly intervention for regeneration. These aesthetic and functional impacts underline the importance of rigorous control.
Prevention and control
To limit the appearance and spread of lawn rust, here are the actions to take:
- Proper fertilization : Provide sufficient nitrogen levels to promote vigorous growth and strengthen the resistance of grasses.
- Soil aeration : Aerate the soil regularly to improve water circulation and limit the accumulation of pathogenic spores in the thatch.
- Regular and adjusted mowing : maintain an appropriate mowing height to reduce moisture on the leaves while promoting lawn health.
- Shade management : Prune trees and shrubs to allow more light to pass through, thereby reducing areas where disease can develop.
- Watering at the right time : Water preferably early in the morning, allowing the lawn to dry quickly and reducing the conditions favorable to spore germination.
Agrobiotop solutions against lawn rust disease
At Agrobiotop, we develop natural products and biocontrol solutions for lawns in green spaces, communities, sports fields and golf courses. If you need an expert on a problem such as lawn rust, contact us .
For soil improvement (aeration, decompaction, prevents thatching) :
Our products against lawn diseases (red thread, dollar spot, anthracnose, pythium, rust, etc.) :
Our biostimulants for your lawns (act as a first line of defense against diseases and pests) :
