Large Patch Fungus Can Damage Your Lawn

Beware of large patch fungus when the weather turns damp and cool

This is a major threat when temperatures drop between 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit and damp conditions persist. While it is possible to strike all types of warm weather grasses, it is especially common in St. Augustine and Zoysia grass.  Large patch fungus is easy to spot. It has a distinct yellow halo type pattern that can start small in diameter but can spread quickly when conditions are damp or overcast for a long period of time. This particular disease attacks the leaves of the grass but not the root system. It is not uncommon to see large patch fungus in Tampa Bay throughout the winter. At Keepers of the Green, we can prevent large patch fungus. If it does spread in your lawn, we can make sure it returns to health and stays that way.

What are the main causes of large patch fungus?

Here are some reasons why your lawn may be suffering from large patch fungus:

• Over watering – Your lawn doesn’t need as much water when the weather starts to cool. Try to irrigate your lawn in the early morning.
• Remove excessive thatch – Thatch is the layer of organic matter that accumulates on a lawn at the base of the grass. It is a combination of living and dead plant matter. It is usually grass clippings and can accumulate throughout the summer. It is best to have thatch less than ¾ of an inch thick.
• Improper mowing – If a lawn is cut too short it could not only kill the grass prematurely, but it could also cause a buildup of thatch. Finding a proper mowing length is crucial.
• Over fertilization – Fertilizers have nitrogen, and too much nitrogen can be bad for a lawn. That is especially true in the fall when the weather gets cooler.

Ways to prevent large patch fungus

That’s where Keepers of the Green can help. We work hard to make sure large patch fungus doesn’t have a chance to take hold. And if it does, we make sure it doesn’t return!

Count on Keepers of the Green to keep your lawn free from ugly large patch fungus

Large patch fungus doesn’t have to ruin your winter lawn. Let our Keepers of the Green experts solve your lawn problems. Call us at 813-884-4255 or contact us online to schedule a detailed assessment of your property.