Fungus on grass can be a real pain to deal with. Not only can it cause unsightly patches of discolored and dead grass, but it can also make your lawn look unhealthy and unkempt. Fungus can also cause serious damage to your turf, leading to costly repairs. Fortunately, there are ways to identify and treat fungus on grass. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to identify different types of fungus, how to kill lawn fungus, and preventive measures you can take to reduce the chance of fungus appearing on your lawn. With the right knowledge and the right steps, you can keep your lawn looking green and healthy all year long.
How To Kill Lawn Fungus: Identify & Treat It
Identifying Fungus on Your Lawn
When it comes to identifying fungus on your lawn, it can be tricky. Different species of fungi can affect your lawn in different ways, and it can be hard to tell what kind of fungus you’re dealing with. But with a little bit of detective work, you can identify what kind of fungus is growing on your lawn and take the necessary steps to get rid of it. Below are some of the most common types of fungus that can be found on your lawn.
Red Thread Fungus
The Red Thread Fungus is a type of fungus that is commonly found in cool, damp grasslands and lawns. It is identifiable by its bright red, thread-like strands that can grow up to several inches long. The fungus feeds on decaying grass and other organic material, and it is considered to be a beneficial organism for lawns, helping to break down dead material, recycle nutrients, and improve soil fertility. Red Thread Fungus is also known to be a sign of healthy turf and can help prevent other fungi, such as brown patch, from taking over an area.
Fusarium Fungus
Fusarium fungus is a type of fungus that is commonly found in soil and is the cause of many types of crop diseases. This fungus is known to cause a wide variety of diseases in plants, including root rot, wilt, and leaf spot. It also affects a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including potatoes, corn, tomatoes, and melons. Fusarium fungus is difficult to control and can be spread easily by wind, water, and insects.
Dollar Spot Disease Fungus
Dollar Spot Disease is a fungal infection that can affect turfgrass and other grasses in warm, humid climates. It is caused by a fungus known as Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, which can cause yellow patches of grass that resemble coins. The disease is especially prevalent during hot, humid summers and can be identified by the presence of small, circular patches of yellowish-brown grass. Dollar Spot Disease can be managed through proper cultural practices, such as mowing regularly, watering deeply, and applying a fungicide to infected areas. In addition, proper fertilization and aeration can help promote healthy grass growth and prevent the spread of the disease.
Fairy Ring Disease Fungus
Fairy Ring Disease Fungus is a type of fungus that affects the soil and grass in lawns and gardens. It is caused by the presence of a type of mushroom-like fungus called Marasmius oreades. The fungus grows in a circular pattern, which is why it is referred to as a fairy ring.
Lawn Rust Fungus
Lawn rust fungus is a common lawn problem that can cause significant damage to your grass. This fungus is caused by a type of fungus called Puccinia, which thrives in warm, humid conditions. It is most commonly seen during the summer months and is usually characterized by yellow-orange spots on the grass blades. The spots vary in size and may contain small amounts of rust-colored powder. In severe cases, the grass may become yellow or orange, and the blades may become brittle and break easily. To prevent or treat lawn rust fungus, it is important to keep your lawn healthy and mow regularly.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a type of fungus that is often found on lawns and in gardens. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can range from small to large. While many people see mushrooms as a nuisance, they can actually be beneficial for your lawn. They help to break down organic matter, releasing essential nutrients that can help your grass and other plants to thrive. They can also help to keep the soil healthy by aerating it, which can help to reduce soil compaction.
Causes of Fungus in Your Lawn
Fungus can be a major problem for lawns, leading to discoloration, stunted growth, and even death of the grass. Causes of fungus in lawns can range from environmental conditions to improper lawn care. Below are some of the common causes of fungus in your lawn:
Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of fungus in your lawn. When you water your lawn too often or for too long, you create a moist environment that is ideal for fungus growth. Overwatering can cause the grass to stay too wet for too long, which can lead to root rot, brown patch, and other types of lawn fungus. In order to prevent this, it is important to only water your lawn when it is dry and to water it deeply but infrequently. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your lawn is well aerated so that water can drain properly.
Compacted Soil
Compacted soil is one of the leading causes of fungus in your lawn. When soil becomes compacted it restricts the air, water and nutrients that are necessary for healthy grass growth. Fungus thrives in these conditions and can spread quickly, leading to yellow, brown or dead patches in your lawn. To prevent compaction, it’s important to aerate your soil regularly and avoid over-watering your lawn. Additionally, heavy traffic should be avoided, as this can also cause soil compaction. Taking these steps will help you to keep your lawn healthy and free from fungus.
Excess Fertilization
Excess fertilization is one of the most common causes of lawn fungus. When too much fertilizer is applied to a lawn, the nitrogen content can become too high, resulting in an overabundance of nitrogen-rich organic matter. This can create an ideal environment for certain types of fungus to thrive, resulting in discolored patches of grass, or even complete die-offs. The best way to prevent excess fertilization from causing fungus in your lawn is to only apply fertilizer when necessary, and to use the correct amount of fertilizer for your lawn. This will ensure that your lawn is getting the nutrients it needs without causing an excess of nitrogen that can lead to fungus growth.
Improper Mowing
Mowing your lawn incorrectly can be one of the causes of fungus in your lawn. When you mow your lawn, make sure to never cut more than one-third of the blade of grass. Doing this will prevent the grass from becoming weakened and stressed, leaving it vulnerable to fungus. It is also important to regularly sharpen the blades of your mower, as dull blades can damage the grass and cause it to become more susceptible to fungus. Additionally, make sure to keep the grass at a consistent height. This will help promote strong, healthy grass. Taking these steps will help prevent fungus from taking over your lawn.
Treating Brown Patches in Your Lawn
Another solution for treating brown patches in your lawn is to aerate the soil to help the water and nutrients reach the roots of the grass. You can do this with a mechanical aerator or a spike aerator. Additionally, you can apply fertilizer to the affected area to help the grass recover. You may also need to water the lawn more frequently to promote healthy grass growth. With proper treatment and care, brown patches in your lawn can be eliminated with the right treatment and care.
What Fungicide To Kill Fungus With?
Fungus can be a stubborn problem to get rid of and can cause serious damage to plants and crops. Fortunately, there are a few methods of controlling fungus growth, both chemical and natural. Chemical fungicides are a great option for treating severe infestations of fungus and work by preventing the growth of the fungus on a cellular level. They are also available in a variety of forms, such as sprays, powders, and liquids, making them easy to apply.
Natural fungicides are a good option for those who are looking for a more environmentally-friendly alternative. These fungicides are typically made from plant-derived oils, such as neem oil, which work to disrupt the cell walls of the fungus and prevent it from reproducing. Both types of fungicides are effective in killing fungus and can help you keep your plants and crops healthy.
Preventing Fungus Growing On Your Lawn
The best way to prevent fungus from growing on your lawn is by practicing good lawn care. This includes mowing your lawn regularly and at the proper height, watering your lawn deeply and less frequently, and applying fertilizer and pesticides as needed. Additionally, you should also make sure that your lawn is well-drained, as standing water can lead to fungal growth. Finally, it’s important to aerate your lawn on a regular basis, as this will help to break up any compacted soil that could be preventing proper drainage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fungus On Your Lawn
Fungus on your lawn can be a common problem. It is important to understand the different types of fungus, how to identify them, and the proper steps to take to treat them. This FAQ will provide helpful information on how to handle fungus on your lawn.
How do I get rid of lawn fungus permanently?
The most effective way to get rid of lawn fungus permanently is to take preventative measures such as proper mowing, watering, fertilization and aeration. This will help keep the lawn healthy and reduce the chances of fungus taking hold. Additionally, applying a fungicide specifically designed to kill the type of fungus present in your lawn can help to eradicate the problem. Lastly, be sure to remove any affected grass and replace it with healthy grass seed to ensure the fungus does not return.
Will lawn fungus go away on its own?
Fungal diseases can be a nuisance to lawns, but the good news is that in many cases they will go away on their own. Many fungi thrive in hot and humid conditions, so as the weather cools, the fungus may die off. Other fungi require a particular host to survive, so if the right conditions don’t exist, the fungus may disappear naturally. While waiting for the fungus to go away, it’s important to maintain proper lawn care practices, such as mowing at the right height and watering deeply but infrequently. Also, avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers as these can worsen the fungus. With the right maintenance and patience, you may find that your lawn fungus will eventually disappear on its own.
Can I treat lawn fungus with a fungicide?
When it comes to treating lawn fungus, using a fungicide is often the best solution. Not only will it help to kill the fungus, but it can also prevent it from spreading to other parts of your lawn. However, it’s important to keep in mind that fungicides can be toxic, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use the right amount of product. Additionally, you may need to treat your lawn multiple times to ensure the fungus is completely eradicated.
What if I can’t identify the fungus?
If you are having difficulty identifying a fungus, the best thing to do is contact a local mycologist or expert. They will be able to help you identify the fungus and provide you with advice on how to best manage it. Additionally, there are several online resources that can help you identify fungi, such as Mushroom Observer and iNaturalist.
Can lawn fungus be cured?
Yes, lawn fungus can be cured. The best way to treat lawn fungus is to use a fungicide to kill the spores. Additionally, it is important to use proper lawn care practices such as proper watering, aerating, and fertilizing to prevent the fungus from returning.
Need To Rescue Your Lawn From Fungus?
If your lawn is showing signs of fungal disease, now is the time to act! Fungal diseases can spread quickly and cause extensive damage to your grass. To keep your lawn looking its best, it is important to identify and treat the problem early. Taking the right steps to prevent and treat fungal disease can help protect your lawn from extensive damage. Contact a professional lawn care service today to get the help you need to rescue your lawn from fungus!