YELLOW TUFT

yellow tuft excess tillers	Characteristic	Description
	Host Grass Species	bentgrass, bluegrasses, zoysiagrass
	Month(s) with symptoms	April to September
	Stand Symptoms	spots
	Foliar Symptoms - Location/Shape	no distinct leaf symptoms
	Foliar Symptoms - Color	yellow
	Root/Crown Symptoms	none
	Fungal Signs	none

 

Note: Still not sure if this is the right disease? The Turfgrass Disease Identification program may be helpful. Or consult the experts at the Turf Diagnostics Lab. Check the TurfFiles glossary for definitions of unfamiliar terms.

FACTORS AFFECTING DISEASE DEVELOPMENT

The yellow tuft pathogen is active during periods of cool, wet weather. The disease is most common in wet, poorly drained areas or where excessive irrigation is applied. The disease may occur in well-drained areas following periods of frequent rainfall. 

CULTURAL CONTROL

Ensuring adequate surface and subsurface drainage is the most effective way to prevent yellow tuft problems. When constructing new turf areas, avoid establishing turf in low lying areas that will collect water and remain saturated for extended periods. If necessary, install subsurface drainage to carry water away from wet areas. Cultivate and topdress on a regular basis to reduce compaction, minimize thatch accumulation, and encourage rapid drainage. 

CHEMICAL CONTROL

Mefanoxam (Subdue Maxx, Fenox, Mefanoxam) and fosetyl-Al (Signature) are the only fungicides labeled for control of yellow tuft. Curative control of yellow tuft is difficult, so a preventative fungicide program should be implemented in areas where the disease has been a persistent problem. Make applications on a 14 to 21 day interval during cool, wet conditions that are conducive to yellow tuft development.

Note:  Recommendations of specific chemicals are based upon information on the manufacturer's label and performance in a limited number of trials. Because environmental conditions and methods of application may vary widely, performance of the chemical will not always conform to the safety and pest control standards indicated by experimental data. The order in which brand names are given is not an indication of a recommendation or criticism.

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services does not imply endorsement by North Carolina State University or discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Other brand names may be labeled for use on turfgrasses. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your county's Cooperative Extension agent. 

© North Carolina State University. This information sheet was prepared by Lane P. Tredway, Gail G. Wilkerson, Bridget R. Lassiter, Jenifer J. Reynolds, and Gregory S. Buol. Departments of Plant Pathology and Crop Science, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, North Carolina State University. Prepared April 29, 2008. Available on-line at www.turffiles.ncsu.edu. This publication was made possible through a grant provided by the Center for Turfgrass Environmental Research & Education (CENTERE) whose purpose is to support worthwhile projects that will benefit both the private sector and the public, and protect the environment.