Maintaining a healthy, lush lawn in Middle Tennessee can be a rewarding but challenging task. Our region’s warm, humid climate provides an ideal breeding ground for various turf diseases that can quickly turn your verdant yard into a patchy, discolored mess. As a small landscape company specializing in turf care services for both residential and commercial clients, we’ve seen firsthand the damage these diseases can cause. Let’s get into the top 3 turf diseases in Middle TN, the symptoms to watch for, and effective prevention strategies.
Top 3 Turf Diseases in Middle TN
Brown Patch
Symptoms
Brown Patch, caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, is a prevalent disease that typically emerges during the hot, humid months of summer. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Circular patches of brown, dead grass that can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter.
- The affected patches often have a smoke ring-like appearance, with a darker, water-soaked border.
- Grass blades within the patches may appear wilted, discolored, and can easily be pulled from the ground due to rotting at the base.
Prevention
Preventing Brown Patch involves a combination of proper lawn care practices and environmental adjustments:
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, ideally in the early morning hours to reduce prolonged leaf wetness. Aim for about one inch of water per week, including rainfall.
- Mowing: Keep your mower blades sharp and avoid cutting the grass too short. A height of around 2.5 to 3 inches is recommended for most turf types in our area.
- Fertilization: Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen-heavy products, as excessive nitrogen can promote disease development. Opt for balanced, slow-release fertilizers.
- Aeration: Aerate your lawn annually to improve soil drainage and reduce thatch buildup, which can harbor fungal spores.
- Fungicides: In severe cases or for high-value turf, preventive fungicide applications may be necessary. Contact SCW Group for the best treatment options.
Dollar Spot
Symptoms
Dollar Spot is another common turf disease in Middle Tennessee, caused by the fungus Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. This disease is most active during late spring through early fall. Key symptoms include:
- Small, silver-dollar-sized patches of bleached or straw-colored grass.
- Lesions on individual grass blades that are tan in the center with a reddish-brown margin.
- In severe cases, patches can merge, creating larger areas of damaged turf.
Prevention
Effective prevention of Dollar Spot includes cultural practices and careful management of lawn health:
- Watering: Similar to Brown Patch prevention, water deeply and infrequently, early in the day.
- Mowing: Regular mowing at the recommended height helps maintain turf vigor. Ensure clippings are collected to prevent the spread of spores.
- Fertilization: Maintain adequate nitrogen levels, as low nitrogen can make turf more susceptible to Dollar Spot. Follow a balanced fertilization schedule.
- Aeration and Thatch Control: Regular aeration and thatch management help improve air circulation and water infiltration, reducing disease incidence.
- Fungicides: For persistent issues, consider preventive fungicide treatments. Consult with a turf care specialist for appropriate products and application timing.
Pythium Blight
Symptoms
Pythium Blight, caused by various species of the Pythium fungus, is a severe and fast-spreading turf disease that thrives in hot, humid conditions. Symptoms to be aware of include:
- Water-soaked, greasy-looking spots that quickly turn brown and die.
- The disease often starts in low, poorly drained areas and spreads rapidly, especially during periods of excessive moisture.
- Affected areas may appear matted and slimy, particularly in the early morning hours.
Prevention
Preventing Pythium Blight requires diligent lawn care and environmental management:
- Watering: Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Irrigate early in the morning to allow the grass to dry quickly.
- Mowing: Maintain a proper mowing height and ensure your mower blades are sharp to avoid stressing the turf.
- Aeration and Drainage: Regular aeration improves soil structure and drainage. Correct any areas of poor drainage to reduce waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which can promote lush, susceptible growth. Use balanced fertilizers according to soil test recommendations.
- Fungicides: In areas prone to Pythium Blight, preventive fungicide applications may be necessary, especially during peak disease periods. Consult a professional for tailored treatment plans.
Maintaining a healthy lawn in Middle Tennessee requires vigilance and proactive care, especially when it comes to preventing turf diseases. By recognizing the symptoms of the top 3 turf diseases in Middle TN like Brown Patch, Dollar Spot, and Pythium Blight, and implementing effective prevention strategies, you can keep your lawn looking its best throughout the year.
SCW Group is dedicated to providing top-notch turf care services to both residential and commercial clients. We understand the unique challenges of our region’s climate and are equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you achieve a beautiful, disease-free lawn. Whether you need routine maintenance, aeration, fertilization, or targeted fungicide applications, we’re here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more resilient lawn.
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