Crisp autumn air is a welcome relief after a long, hot summer — unless you’ve been overwatering your lawn. Cooler temperatures and increased moisture make your grass susceptible to fungal disease.
Bermuda, zoysia and St. Augustine grasses are all vulnerable to these common turf diseases.
Take-all root rot or take-all patch: characterized by yellow dead patches, black spots on stems; found most often in spring.
Brown patch fungus: appears as circular or irregular patches of light brown, thinned grass and prevalent in fall and winter. There are many products available that will cure this fungus when applied properly.
Compost, either alone or mixed with a small amount of sand to make top dressing, helps acidify the soil and minimize lawn diseases. Reducing the amount of water and nitrogen applied to the lawn is also helpful.
The simple rule to remember: Keep moisture and fertilizer to a minimum.
Visit GardenStyleSA.com for weekly watering amounts and landscaping tips to keep your yard looking great using less water.