Lawn Diseases: Coming This Spring To A Yard Near You!
A beautiful lawn is a particular source of pride and joy for Cincinnati homeowners. That’s why lawn diseases are the bane of their existing, making it so hard to maintain their lush, great turfs. Getting ahead of the problem is the key and to do that you’ll need to more about your enemy.
This comprehensive guide will explore the most prevalent lawn diseases in Cincinnati, their symptoms, and how to prepare an effective lawn care treatment program for spring.
Table of Contents
- Common Lawn Diseases in Cincinnati
- Preventative Measures and Lawn Care Tips
- Preparing for Spring: Effective Lawn Care Treatment Program
- Final Thoughts
- Related Resources
- Need More Help?
Common Lawn Diseases in Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s climate, with its humid summers and cold winters, can be tough on lawns. Popular grass types like Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and tall fescue are commonly affected by various diseases. Here are 6 common lawn diseases you need to understand and prepare for this Spring.
1. Brown Patch
Brown Patch is a serious fungal disease caused by the Rhizoctonia species. It’s most active in hot, humid weather and can rapidly damage large areas of the lawn.
- Appearance: Look for irregularly shaped patches of brown, dying grass. The edges of these patches often have a “smoke ring” appearance.
- Prevention and Management: Ensure good air circulation, avoid evening watering, and apply nitrogen carefully.
2. Dollar Spot
Dollar Spot, caused by the fungus Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, creates small, silver dollar-sized spots on the lawn. It thrives in moist conditions with low nitrogen levels.
- Appearance: Small, bleached-out patches that may merge into larger areas.
- Prevention and Management: Maintain adequate nitrogen levels and remove dew from grass blades in the mornings.
3. Red Thread
Red Thread, caused by the fungus Laetisaria fuciformis, is most common in cool, moist conditions. It affects fine fescues and perennial ryegrass.
- Appearance: Red or pink web-like threads extending from the grass blade.
- Prevention and Management: Improve soil drainage and avoid excess nitrogen.
4. Pythium Blight
Pythium Blight, also known as “grease spot” or “cottony blight,” is a fast-moving, highly destructive fungal disease, especially in hot, humid weather.
- Appearance: Initially, dark, water-soaked spots, quickly enlarging to form blighted areas.
- Prevention and Management: Improve drainage, reduce watering frequency, and apply fungicides as necessary.
5. Summer Patch
Summer Patch affects the roots of grass, especially Kentucky Bluegrass and fine fescues. It’s a stress-related disease, exacerbated by poor soil conditions and high temperatures.
- Appearance: Circular patches of straw-colored, dying grass.
- Prevention and Management: Aerate the soil to improve root health and avoid excessive watering.
6. Leaf Spot and Melting-Out
Leaf Spot and Melting-Out are two stages of a common fungal disease. Initially appearing as leaf spots, the disease can progress to the melting-out stage, affecting the crown and root system.
- Appearance: Purplish-brown spots on grass blades, followed by thinning of the lawn.
- Prevention and Management: Apply appropriate fungicides and maintain balanced fertilization.
Preventative Measures and Lawn Care Tips
Here’s what you can do to stay ahead of the lawn diseases that begin arriving each Spring here in Southwest Ohio.
1. Soil Health and Proper Mowing
- Soil Testing and Balance: Regular soil testing can reveal nutrient deficiencies or imbalances. Adjusting pH levels and nutrient content can significantly improve lawn health.
- Correct Mowing Practices: Mow at a height appropriate for your grass type. Taller grass can shade the soil, reducing moisture loss and stress on the grass.
2. Watering Techniques
- Watering Depth and Frequency: Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth, which is crucial for disease resistance. Aim for about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
- Best Time to Water: Water in the early morning to allow grass blades to dry during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
3. Aeration and Overseeding
- Aeration Benefits: Aerating the lawn helps relieve soil compaction, improving water, air, and nutrient flow to the roots.
- Overseeding: Introduce disease-resistant grass varieties to your lawn through overseeding. This practice can also help your lawn recover from disease damage.
4. Hire a Professional
- Benefits: A guaranteed healthy lawn due to the consistency of scheduled treatment plan and the knowledge and experience from treating thousands of homes in Cincinnati.
Preparing for Spring: Effective Lawn Care Treatment Program
1. Early Spring Lawn Care
- Balanced Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth without encouraging disease.
- Pre-emergent Herbicides: These can help control weeds, reducing competition for resources.
2. Dealing with Diseases: Identification and Treatment
- Fungicides: Choose fungicides based on the specific diseases present in your lawn. It’s essential to apply them correctly for effective control.
- Professional Assessment: For severe or recurring problems, seek advice from a lawn care professional or a local extension office.
3. Ongoing Maintenance
- Regular Monitoring: Inspect your lawn regularly for early signs of disease. Prompt action can prevent widespread damage.
- Lawn Hygiene: Remove leaves and debris, which can harbor fungi and other pathogens.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a healthy lawn in Cincinnati means being proactive and informed. By understanding the common diseases that affect local lawns and preparing an effective lawn care treatment program, you can ensure a vibrant, beautiful lawn. Remember, a little effort in lawn care goes a long way in preventing and managing these common lawn diseases.
Related Resources
- Lawn care guide for every season
- What is red thread disease?
- All about lawn fungus: identify and treat
- What is lawn maintenance
- Lawn care services for a healthy lawn
- Get a free estimate
Need More Help?
Need help preventing or killing lawn diseases in Cincinnati? Just contact American Landscapes here for a free, no-obligation estimate. Or call us at (513) 947-8727.
You can also learn more about our lawn care applications and treatments, landscaping, and outdoor lighting services by reading our blog. In addition to fertilizer and weed control, we provide mosquito control, lawn aeration, lawn seeding, and much more.
