Waitea Patch / Brown Patch

Symptoms	Tan to dark patches. When humid conditions are present a brown/grey smoke ring may develop around the edge.
Grass species that is susceptible	All species of grass are susceptible.
When does it appear?	In the summertime.
Climate conditions	Warm and humid weather.
Turf Condition	Poor drainage or water soaked grass.

waitea patch

Causes

Waitea Patch forms as yellowing rings of around 20-40cm in diameter that often coalesce into large odd shapes (I often say that they look like Teletubbies).

It is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stem, crown and upper roots.

It only appears in the summer and is triggered by high heat and humidity.

It needs temperatures of about 24 degrees plus and a humid environment.

It is very similar in appearance to Superficial Fairy Rings. The way to tell the difference between Waitea Patch and Superficial Fairy Ring is that Waitea Patch is a leaf disease and therefore it does not cause a depression In the surface.

Cultural Control

Waitea Patch will grow out, keep the turf healthy and do not underfeed it.

We recommend using stress relief products such as Vitax Amino-Sorb F, ICL Vitalnova Stress Buster or Prestige Super Seaweed

Reduce surface humidity by regular sorrel rolling.

Chemical Control

There are no label approvals for fungicides however, customer practice does show that Heritage Maxx will give a good level of control. However, sometimes it will require 2 applications 2 weeks apart. Apply at a rate of around 400l per Hectare and tank mix with Prestige Super Recovery

Heritage Maxx has been withdrawn from sale and distribution. You have until the 24th March 2024 for the disposal, storage and use of existing stock

Prevent creating a humid environment by setting irrigation early in the morning when it is cool rather than in the evening.

Use plant protection safely. Always read the label and product information before use.