Lawn Fungus
This disease usually begins as small patches (about 1 foot in diameter) that turn yellow and then reddish brown, brown, or straw colored as the leaves start to die. Patches can expand to several feet in diameter. It is not uncommon to see rings of yellow or brown turf with apparently healthy turf in the center. Turf at the outer margin of a patch may appear dark and wilted.
According to the University of Florida IFAS/Extension:
Cultural practices, involving nutrient and water management, can be adjusted to control brown patch. Excessive nitrogen application during potential disease development periods should be avoided. Just prior to or during disease development periods, slow-release nitrogen sources should be used as opposed to readily available forms, such as soluble liquids or quick-release nitrogen sources. A balanced fertilizer containing equivalent amounts of potassium and nitrogen, preferably a slow-release potassium form, should be applied.
Irrigation should only occur when necessary and during in the early morning hours (between 2:00 and 8:00 a.m.) when dew is already present. Diseased areas should be mowed last since mowers can spread this disease. The mower should be washed of all turf clippings before proceeding to the next site.
Clients often ask if they should mow before treatment and how long should they wait to mow after treatment. George answers those questions and also explains how to determine if you have lawn fungus in your yard.
Treating Fungus
It’s recommended that you not mow BEFORE any herbicide application. The weeds will pickup the herbicide better if they are actively growing.
When the temperatures drop, and either morning dew or light rains occur they create the perfect environment which can lead to lawn fungus and disease issues. Please reduce your watering amounts to one time per week during this time.
Controlling Lawn Fungus
The best way to control disease is our cultural controls. Major contributors such as over-irrigation, excessive thatch, poor drainage and improper mowing. Always mow when the turf is dry, make sure your blade is sharp, and mow any diseased areas last to prevent any further spread of disease.
Lawn Fungus, Bugs, Pests and Weeds, well they aren’t nice… but WE ARE!
At Peninsular our well trained Citter Gitters kill ‘em with kindness. Meaning we take care of your unwelcomed guests and lawn troubles, and always do it with a smile and with pride. If we can help with the extras, we will. If we get the chance to say hello, we will. We guarantee our services and we’ve been doing it this way in the Jacksonville area since 1954.