Caused by the fungus Cercospora zebrina, Cerospora leaf spot (CLS) is more common in summer and autumn, mostly in the North Island.

 

Identification

Circular brown, sometimes striped, lesions appear on the leaves.

 

Spread

The disease persists on decaying plant material in the base of pastures. Spores of the fungal pathogen are produced in warm, moist weather and spread by wind.

 

Prevention and management

Graze pastures before they become rank.