Disease Control

S. Bruce Martin, Extension and Research Plant Pathologist

To download the data tables for this section of the Pest Control Guidelines Handbook, please click here.  (312 KB, PDF)

Diseases are primary limiting factors to the successful culture of cool and warm season turfgrasses in South Carolina. The wide range of microclimates in the state allow culture of a wide variety of turfgrasses, but frequently the humid conditions allow disease development.  Warm season grasses also come under stress from cold temperatures in transition zone habitats. 

Fortunately, grasses receiving proper cultural practices including proper irrigation, mowing, and fertilizing are less likely to develop diseases and are not as likely to be seriously damaged if a disease occurs.  By enhancing plant vigor, diseases will be minimized and the need for the use of costly fungicides will be reduced.  If used, alternate between classes of fungicides to prevent development of fungicide-resistant pathogens. NOTE: Products containing chlorothalonil, iprodione and vinclozolin are no longer labeled for use on home lawns.