What environmental conditions encourage Large Patch development?

The development of Large Patch disease, primarily caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, is notably encouraged by excessive irrigation and wet weather. These conditions create an environment where moisture is retained in the turf, providing the ideal conditions for the fungi to thrive. Waterlogged soils or prolonged periods of high soil moisture can lead to a breakdown of turf health and promote the spread of this disease.

In contrast, dry and windy conditions tend to stress the turf, making it less susceptible to fungal infections. Hot and arid climates do not support fungal growth effectively since high temperatures and low moisture levels do not create a conducive environment for the disease. Similarly, low humidity combined with high nitrogen levels may not stimulate Large Patch development, as high nitrogen typically encourages growth that could compete with fungal pathogens for resources. Therefore, the correlation between excessive moisture and the proliferation of Large Patch is clear, aligning with the answer that excessive irrigation and wet weather pose significant risks for the onset of this condition in turf environments.