Preventive Fairy Ring Solutions Fairy ring is unique because its symptoms are not directly caused by fungal pathogens. Rather, fairy ring pathogens cause symptoms indirectly by changing the chemical and physical properties of the soil. The causes and symptoms can vary, which is why curative fungicide applications can be unreliable. For best control of fairy ring, a preventive strategy should be used.
VARYING CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS Three types of fairy ring symptoms can change the appearance and/or health of turfgrass.
TYPE I SYMPTOMS Damaged or dead turf from drought stress. CAUSES: • Hydrophobic (water-repellent) thatch and soil. • Accumulation of ammonium to toxic levels. • Release of hydrogen cyanide or other toxins into the root zone.
TYPE II SYMPTOMS Rings of dark green or quickly growing turf. These symptoms usually occur early in the season, and indicate that more severe Type I symptoms may follow. They are most evident in under-fertilized turf. CAUSE: • The release of nitrogen and other nutrients into the soil.
TYPE III SYMPTOMS Mushrooms or other fruiting bodies produced in a ring. They are most common during periods of wet weather preceded by drought. CAUSE: • Mycelial mass buildup around the outer ring. Although Type II and III symptoms are not devastating to turf, they do detract from uniformity and can affect playability.
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