Overview
Rust diseases of grains and grasses are some of the most common plant diseases on Earth. Many different species of rust can cause disease on turfgrass, but the most common are stem rust (Puccinia graminis), crown rust (P. coronata), and stripe rust (P. striiformis). On turfgrass rust has traditionally been associated with sod production or home lawn turfgrass that is stressed due to drought, soil compaction, low nitrogen fertility, or a range of other factors. Control of rust has traditionally been obtained through resistant varieties of Kentucky bluegrass or through improved cultural turfgrass management (proper fertility, mowing, irrigation, etc). However, increased rust severity in recent years in the absence of mitigating cultural circumstances has led to fears of potential shifts in the population structure of rust pathogens. Further research of turfgrass rust pathogens is required for improved rust management without the requirement of multiple fungicide applications.
University of Wisconsin Rust Research Projects
Developing IPM for rust diseases in turfgrass (Koch).
- 2013 – Present.
- Turfgrass Diagnostic Lab – Rust Research
- Funding provided by the Wisconsin Sod Producers Association and the Specialty Crop Block Grant.
Related Publications
Coming soon!