Brown Patch is on the Move

Brown patch fungus is a common turf disease that will appear, in varying degrees, in almost every lawn. If untreated, this disease can severely damage a lawn.

There are basically two conditions that need to be met before brown patch symptoms are visible, and we are approaching the time of year when the environment typically meets these conditions, which are: night temperatures approach 60 F or higher and an extended period of foliar wetness. The disease will be more severe on lawns that are excessively thick, overly fertilized, cut at a low mowing height and have poorly drained soils.

Contractors can prevent brown patch by applying a turf fungicide as soon as the environmental conditions are met. This is recommended for clients who have had brown patch damage in the past. Contractors also can apply a curative treatment as soon as they detect brown patch symptoms.

Limit the potential for brown patch by mowing at the correct height and maintaining a balanced fertility through the season. Also, avoiding irrigation in the afternoon and evening limits disease potential.