What is red thread?
Red thread, unlike other lawn diseases, isn’t something that needs a lot of intensive treatment so long as it is treated correctly and before the disease can spread across the lawn. The infected section of lawn will appear weakened and the grass stems will change colours to be more red/pink, however it is not completely fatal to the grass.
Why does red thread develop?
Here are some reasons for red thread developing in lawns:
Lack of nitrogen
Insufficient nitrogen levels in the soil can make the grass weaken and naturally become more vulnerable to disease.
Poor air circulation
Thatch and overgrown grass can trap moisture and prevent proper air circulation, promoting the development of disease.
Summer months
Red thread thrives in heat and humidity.
Excessive moisture
Overwatering will keep the grass blades wet for an extended period of time which invites red thread to develop.
Gardening equipment and processes
Red thread can spread through contaminated tools and clippings of grass that carry the disease.
How can I spot red thread?
Red thread normally forms in the summer months, and here is what to look out for:
- Thread-like strands appearing in your grass.
- Web-like areas of coral pink to blood red on the grass blades.
- Strands that protrude up to 2cm from the blade tips.
- Patches of uneven grass colour.
If you notice one or more of these signs, it is worth treating the issue to prevent any spread.
How we will treat red thread
We will use professional fungicide disease control treatment; this controls both the fungi and its spores, so it will help prevent spreading and will eradicate the disease for up to six weeks.
The product we use is not available to the general public, and must be administered by a professional. That’s why it’s best to leave disease control to the experts, for a safe and thorough job.
Don't just take our word for it
See why thousands of homeowners trust us with their lawns.
Get a fast, personalised lawn care quote in minutes:
Want a quick quote from your local Greensleeves expert? No problem!
Our online quote tool makes it simple to build your perfect lawn care plan, tailored to your needs with advice from your local expert.