Zoysia Grass Fungus

Types

• Rust is a fungal disease that affects zoysiagrass more severely than bermudagrass or centipede, states the Missouri Botanical Garden. The fungus causing rust in turfgrass attacks only living grass. Crown rot disease commonly occurs on bentgrass, perennial ryegrass and zoysiagrass. Alternating periods of wet and dry weather conditions, favor the development of crown rot in zoysiagrass.

Symptoms

• The symptoms associated with rust in zoysiagrass include red spores on grass, yellow grass, wilting grass and the eventual death of grass. Crown rot causes brown leaf spots on grass blades, yellow leaves and thinning of lawn grass.

Control

• Keeping your zoysiagrass healthy and free from stress is one way to prevent fungal diseases such as rust and crown rot. Applying fertilizers to keep nutrient levels balanced, regular mowing and watering your grass early in the day prevent fungal disease development, as well.