Lawn Fungus & Disease Control

Lawn Disease

Besides grub damage, lawn disease is the most common pest of a beautiful lawn. Lawn disease normally presents as irregular circle patterns in a lawn and are caused by natural conditions. Lawn disease will present itself when they type of grass is susceptible, the pathogen is present, and environmental conditions are just right. Lawn diseases can be prevalent in the Midwest during the spring, summer, and fall. Some lawn diseases can cause die back of turf if left untreated. Treatments for lawn disease include fungicides, core aeration, and fertilizer treatments.

Things you can do

• Sharpen your mowers’ blades: Mowing with dull blades causes grass to tear thus making it weak and more susceptible to lawn disease.
• Mow grass tall: Most grass species should be cut at 3 1/2” – 4” in the Midwest. Taller grass equals deeper roots which means healthier, thicker turf that can deal with heat and drought better. Also, thick, tall grass prevents weeds from germinating making for less weeds throughout the season.
• Water 1-2 times per week during extended dry periods, especially when temperatures are above 85 degrees.
• When watering a lawn infrequent, deep watering is best for healthy turf.