A green, healthy lawn is something every homeowner dreams of, but lawn diseases can quickly turn your yard from a lush stretch of turf into a brown, patchy mess. With a little knowledge and the right professional lawn care, you can keep most lawn diseases at bay this spring and summer.
Brown Patch
What It Looks Like
Brown patch disease is exactly what it sounds like, and it appears as large, circular patches of brown, dying grass. The edges of the affected parts of your lawn may look darker or water-soaked, and the problem usually shows up in hot, humid weather.
What Causes It
Brown patch is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia, which thrives in warm, moist conditions. Overwatering, poor drainage, and excessive fertilizer can make your lawn more vulnerable.
How to Prevent It
- Water early in the morning to allow your grass to fully dry during the day.
- Avoid overwatering and improve drainage in low-lying areas.
- Mow your turf regularly and keep blades sharp to reduce stress on the grass.
- Use fertilizer cautiously.
- Aerate compacted soil to improve air circulation at the root level.
Dollar Spot
What It Looks Like
Dollar spot looks like small, silver-dollar-sized tan spots scattered across your lawn. These spots may merge to form larger patches over time.
What Causes It
Dollar spot is caused by Clarireedia fungi and is common during periods of high humidity and moderate temperatures. Lawns with low nitrogen levels are especially vulnerable.
How to Prevent It
- Maintain proper nitrogen levels with professional guidance.
- Mow at the recommended height for your grass type.
- Water deeply and infrequently rather than lightly and often.
- Reduce thatch buildup, as it can harbor fungal spores.
Red Thread
What It Looks Like
Red thread appears as pale pink or tan patches of grass that often have thread-like red or pink fibers sticking out from the grass blades. It tends to appear in spring or fall when the weather is cool and damp.
What Causes It
Red thread is caused by the fungus Laetisaria fuciformis, and typically affects lawns with poor soil fertility.
How to Prevent It
- Fertilize your lawn based on a soil test to correct nutrient deficiencies.
- Improve drainage and air circulation by aerating and dethatching.
- Water only when necessary and avoid watering in the evening.
- Keep your mower blades clean and sharp to avoid spreading spores.
Powdery Mildew
What It Looks Like
Powdery mildew looks like white or grayish powdery spots on the blades of your grass, especially in shaded areas. As the disease progresses, the grass may turn yellow or die back.
What Causes It
Powdery mildew is caused by several types of fungi that thrive in cool, shady, and poorly ventilated areas.
How to Prevent It
- Prune trees or shrubs to increase sunlight exposure.
- Choose shade-tolerant grass varieties.
- Avoid over-fertilizing shaded areas, which can encourage weak, disease-prone growth.
How Can You Prevent Lawn Disease?
Preventing lawn diseases starts with good overall lawn care practices. A healthy, well-maintained lawn is far less likely to succumb to disease. Partnering with a professional grounds maintenance company lets you rest easy and enjoy a beautiful lawn.
Hire the Professionals for Your Spring Landscaping Needs
Ready to set up your spring grounds maintenance services? Give JFC Grounds Maintenance a call at (410) 655-2887.