Completed project
Improved capacity for integrated disease management of couch smut (Ustilago cynodontis) in turf (TU17002)
Publication date: September 10, 2021
Delivery Partner: The University of Queensland
© 2026 Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited.
Running from 2018 to 2021, this investment developed an improved integrated disease management plan for couch smut for the Australian turf industry. The project team’s activities included research to better understand the fungus that causes the disease, its distribution and transmission, as well as evaluation of fungicides for control and consider couch varieties for potential resistance.
Widespread in Australia, this disease is a concern for the turf industry as it affects the vigour, appearance and resilience (ability to handle trampling and damage from human traffic) of green couch, and the smut spores are a public health concern (primarily as allergens). Although the disease is a common around the world, very little research exists on its biology and epidemiology to develop an evidence-based management program.
Key activities and findings that contributed to the proposed management plan included:
Read more about couch smut research on page 12 of the Turf Australia magazine, Spring 2018 edition.
This project was a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Turf Fund
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