Tag Archives: Fungus

A fungus is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms which includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These organisms are classified in biology as having their own distinct kingdom, Fungi. This is completely separate from the other life kingdoms of plants and animals.

A fungus is not a plant or animal

Fungi are essential to life. They break down and recycle nutrients in the environment. This enables these nutrients to be available to plants and animals. Fungi are found worldwide.

In a lawn care setting, fungi are essential in maintaining a healthy soil. Fungal mycelium is present all through a healthy soil and provide a valuable link between soil and plants.

Fungus can also be damaging to grass plants. There are several species of fungal diseases which prey on weak grass. Red thread is the most common fungal infection in the UK. It is especially seen in warm, damp summers.

Find out more about fungus and your lawn in these blog pages.

The first case of red thread disease in 2013

Red Thread on a lawn close up

Red thread disease (Laetisaria fuciformis) is a fungal infection which can attack grass in warm, wet summers. In 2012, red thread rose to almost epidemic levels, infecting almost 70% of lawns in the South Manchester area. The recent wet weather has meant that the grass sward is damp for most of the day which are ideal conditions for… Read More »