Take-All Patch Control with Manganese: Research-Based Approach

Take-all patch plagues St. Augustinegrass, zoysiagrass, and bermudagrass lawns. Linked to soil pH and manganese deficiency.

I asked Alfredo Martinez, PhD (UGA Extension Plant Pathologist) about manganese research from New Jersey.

Based on 2003 Crop Science (43:1395-1398). Bruce Clark (author) specializes in turfgrass root diseases like take-all. Research shows manganese aids take-all control (turfgrass and wheat), especially in alkaline soils where Mn is sequestered/unavailable. Mn deficiency increases take-all incidence. Soil pH is crucial.

Advice: Soil test first – check pH and Mn availability. If pH acidic (≤6.0) and Mn medium/high → little benefit from extra Mn. If high pH and low Mn → MnSO4 application advisable.

Mn fertilization = part of overall soil fertility program for take-all control. Other factors: sound N-P-K fertility, proper pH, ammonium-based fertilizers to acidify soil, encourage root growth, core aeration, thatch management. Several fungicides labeled but should combine with cultural practices. Preventive fungicide applications provide best take-all control.

Side note: In GA coastal region, MnSO4 (2 lbs/1,000 sq ft) on St. Augustinegrass showed improvement, but other amendments also applied.