Bare-patch disease and associated problems in subterranean clover pastures in South Australia.

Abstract

Three diseases new to subterranean clover pastures have been observed in the Coonalpyn Downs, South Australia. Rhizoctonia solani is shown to be the cause of "bare patch" and Meloidogyne marioni of "root-knot patch". The third disease, "unthriftiness", is a complex problem. There is some evidence that Corticium praticola may be associated as a parasite, but it appears that there are other contributing factors. The implications of widespread establishment of these diseases are discussed and suggestions for control are made.