How to Troubleshoot Lawn Damage and Diseases (2024)

FAQs

How do I find out what's wrong with my lawn? ›

Improper mowing or watering habits, too much or too little fertilizer, thatch and compacted soil all increase the chances of disease. Diseases, such as lawn fungus, often start as yellow, tan or brown areas of varying sizes in the lawn. But before you assume you have a lawn disease, make sure it isn't something else.

Discoloration is the most obvious sign of a potential lawn fungus. If your lawn has areas of discoloration or full-blown brown spots, this is a potential indicator that you are dealing with a grass disease.

Some common signs of fungal infections include: Patches of discolored or dying grass, ranging in color from yellow to brown. Circular or irregularly-shaped spots on the lawn. Fuzzy, powdery, or slimy growth on grass blades.

The Purdue Turf Doctor app was developed by experts at Purdue University to help homeowners and land managers diagnose & address turfgrass problems caused by a variety of factors including weeds, insects, diseases, nuisance animals and abiotic stress.

For fast acting results, consider the use of a fungicide on the affected areas of your lawn. The use of the products will be most effective at the earliest signs of brown patch fungus, and can yield more immediate results if applied properly.

Mix one tablespoon of baking soda and 5 litres of water. Spray the solution on your lawn every three days until the fungus dies. Neem oil is also an effective fungicide.

How to bring a lawn back to life? ›

Lightly rake the healthy areas to get rid of dying grass and aerate the soil for root stimulation. Once you have the land prepared, take a rotary seed spreader and lay down new grass seed over the dead spots. Using a lawn roller, gently press the seeds into the soil of the dead spots.

Yes, your lawn can come back from a fungal infection.

If the infection is left untreated, the grass may die.

For best results, you should apply fungicide as soon as the disease is diagnosed. For a more preventative approach, applying fungicide throughout the summer months (or when nightly temperatures rise above 60 degrees) can play a key role in the ongoing health of your lawn.

This is often caused by heavy foot traffic or machinery. Poor Drainage: Insufficient drainage can result in waterlogged soil, which leads to sinking as the soil loses its support structure.

If you have noticed small holes and mounds of dirt in your yard, chances are you have some fossorial animals in your garden. Fossorial animals are animals that burrow and live underground, like pocket gophers, moles, prairie dogs, ground squirrels, groundhogs, and rabbits.