This time of year with a mix of both hot and humid temps and evening rainfalls, we are seeing a lot of brown patch disease. Here are a few tips about what brown patch disease is and how to spot it.
Brown patch is a major summer disease for lawns and golf courses. The most susceptible grass species include perennial ryegrass and tall fescue. Occasionally, brown patch becomes a problem in mid- to-late summer during extended periods of high temperature and humidity.
Symptoms and signs
• On high-cut turf, patches may range from a few inches to several feet in diameter. In early morning on dew-covered turf, white mycelium (of the causal fungus) can often be seen on and between grass leaves and stems in the patch. Occasionally, no circular pattern can be seen, and the disease appears as a diffuse blight.
• On tall fescue, brown spot(s) can be observed on individual leaves and not necessarily in patches. These indicators on leaves appear as irregular tan or light brown lesions surrounded by dark brown borders. In severe cases, the entire stand may look discolored and thinned.
Seeding with a disease tolerant fescue and/or Hybrid bluegrass can drastically reduce the amount of brown patch in your lawn. Advanced lawn Solutions takes all of the necessary measures in preventing brown patch disease, however, previously planted varieties of turf grass or even original sod can be susceptible to disease. If you notice these spots, the best action is to cut the lawn one notch shorter to allow the soil to dry out, and ensure that your watering regimen is set up correctly. Make sure your watering cycles are completely done by 9:00 a.m. and you are watering only 3-4 days per week.
We, at Advanced Lawn Solutions, are helping you keep your lawn green and healthy this summer.