Fairy rings may sound harmless, but they damage lawns

We’ve all seen them in our Florida lawns – MUSHROOMS

Often identified by unsightly mushrooms, our lawn care professionals can make sure this potentially damaging disease doesn’t destroy your lawn. The name “fairy ring’’ doesn’t aptly describe this lawn ailment that affects soil in the summer months. That’s because the name comes from an old folk tale. Before science came up with the real reason, it was believed that mushrooms appeared where fairies danced the night before. In actuality, fairy rings appear when large amounts of organic matter like tree stumps or lumber are buried in a lawn. The fungi develop on this material. The fungi is called basidiomycetes and typically appear as dark green circles. They mostly appear in sandy soils that have little water or fertilization. The professionals at Keepers of the Green can make sure your lawn is cleared of any debris that can potentially cause pesky fairy rings.

Three types of fairy rings

There are 3 types of Florida fairy rings

• Type I: This type features an area of dead grass inside an area of green grass. In the dead zone, it is not uncommon for weeds to invade the zone.
• Type II: With this type there are only bands of dark green turf. While the turf isn’t dead, it is a different color than the normal grass. Mushrooms may or may not grow in this zone.
• Type III: In this type, there is no discoloration of the grass, but a ring of mushrooms does appear.

No matter what type you have, Keepers of the Green will correctly diagnose the problem and do what’s necessary to bring your lawn back to life.

What’s the best way to keep fairy rings out of your yard?

Once fairy rings appear in a yard it is difficult to eliminate them. There is no known natural cure except to remove the mushrooms and replace the debris and soil. The best way to prevent fairy rings from appearing is to properly fertilize, water, aerate and mow the yard. Do not let debris settle in the grass to give the fungi a chance to grow. The best solution to fairy rings and other lawn diseases, pests, and concerns is to contact Keepers of the Green. We have been keeping Tampa Bay area lawns green, healthy and beautiful since 1997.

Call Keepers of the Green for expert lawn care if you have mushrooms and fairy rings

Having fairy rings may be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. Keepers of the Green has extensive experience in treating and controlling fairy rings, as well as all other lawn problems Floridians face. We can treat the problem and make sure it doesn’t return. Call us at 813-884-4255 or contact us online to schedule a free lawn analysis. We provide detailed assessments to help you maximize the full potential of your yard.