Not removing the winter forage may result in lower yields or death of the perennial summer grass sod from competition for sunlight, nutrients, and moisture by the winter forage crop. Delayed planting minimizes damage from either pest. Selection through breeding has improved ryegrass resistance. Early infection greatly reduces forage production. Late infection generally does not greatly reduce forage production.
Most new varieties have good to excellent crown rust resistance.
Plants that show symptoms usually have been stressed from drought and warm temperatures in early fall . The disease dissipates with cooler weather and usually does not present a risk to forage plantings. The leaf spot tends to be round to oblong in shape, and its color may vary from tan to grey with purple or brown borders. Lesions may also form on the stem of the plant. Chlorosis and tissue death occur around the lesion and may extend to the leaf tip, or over the entire leaf.