Superficial Fairy Ring

The appearance of either:
1. a light green / yellowing / straw brown affected circular area;
2. a ring, which is darker green and often being slightly sunken from the surrounding sward; or occasionally
3. fungal mycelium is present on the surface of the infected area, sometimes in combination with the above.

The fungi can be active at any time of the year. Mild, warm and humid weather conditions typically provide conditions when their presence is most noticeable.

Superficial fairy rings can often appear in fine turf areas, especially golf greens, where excessive thatch is evident. The focus of attention in controlling these rings should be on reducing and diluting thatch content and then adjusting maintenance practices to ensure they are more focused: being at the right time and right settings and frequencies.

Control and alleviation methods can include:
• Scarification and verticutting;
• Light top-dressing;
• Implementing a programme of light applications of sulphate of iron;
• Aeration, including hollow tining if especially severe;
• Application of an approved fungicide.