What is one of the primary management strategies for large patch control?

The primary management strategy for controlling large patch disease in turfgrass is through preventative fungicide applications in the fall. Large patch, also known as brown patch, thrives in warm and humid conditions, particularly during the transitional months of fall. Applying fungicides before the onset of disease symptoms helps to create a protective barrier on the turf, reducing the likelihood of infection as environmental conditions become favorable for the pathogen. This proactive approach not only protects the existing grass but also minimizes the potential for severe outbreaks that can damage the lawn.

In contrast, over-fertilizing in late summer can exacerbate disease issues by promoting lush growth that is more susceptible to pathogens. Watering only during heavy rainfalls can lead to drought stress and does not address moisture management for disease prevention. Resting the lawn from all traffic may help in some cases to reduce stress on damaged areas, but it does not directly target the pathogen causing the large patch. Therefore, preventative fungicide application stands out as the most effective strategy for managing this particular turf disease.