Anthracnose Roaring in Like a Lion

Basal rot anthracnose (Colletotrichum cerealis, syn. Colletotrichum graminicola) has appeared extensively through Ohio since snow melt in January. Occurring primarily on Poa annua

greens, the symptoms are typical of anthracnose - rusty to burnt orange irregular shaped areas. The normal pathogen signs of blackening of the plant base and the presence of setae however are not clearly apparent.

The reason why anthracnose is so active so early is open to debate. Although many superintendents felt that their greens went into winter "clean", the stressful summer of 2005 followed by a relatively mild winter probably resulted in the pathogen remaining active through the winter albeit at a low level.

Recommendation: If you have had a history of this disease, check your greens. If symptoms are not present, monitor closely. If symptoms are present, treat infected areas with a fungicide, and promote growth and recovery to damaged areas.

If you are unsure whether you have anthracnose or not, feel free to contact me (614-292-9283) or send a sample.

Authors: Joseph Rimelspach