Lawn Academy

Brown Patch / Summer Patch
Rhizoctonia Solani
A widespread lawn disease caused by Rhizoctonia fungus that weakens the root but does not always kill off the grass.
Management
Water deeply, but infrequently in the morning rather than in the evening and maintain proper nitrogen fertility.
Prevention
Moderate amounts of nitrogenous fertilizer, early morning watering and refrain from watering in the evening. Also, mow on a frequent basis with sharp blades.
Identification
- Yellow/brown circular areas of dead grass
- Fish or frog eye appearance
- Cobweb-like growth around blades in morning
Causes
- 60-70°F temperatures
- Low nitrogen
- Cooler weather in spring and fall
- All species of turf grassare susceptible