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Maintaining a lush, green lawn during June can be challenging, especially when brown patches start to appear. One common issue is lawn brown patch, a fungal disease that affects many grass types. Understanding how to treat and prevent this problem is essential for a healthy lawn.
What Is Lawn Brown Patch?
Lawn brown patch is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and often appears during late spring and early summer. The disease manifests as circular or irregular patches of dead grass, often with a darker border.
Signs and Symptoms
Early signs include small, water-soaked spots that expand into larger patches. The edges of these patches may be darker, and the grass within can appear wilted or scorched. In the morning, you might notice a cottony, white mycelium on infected areas.
Conditions Favoring Brown Patch
- High humidity
- Warm temperatures (75-85°F)
- Overly dense or thatch-rich lawns
- Overwatering or excessive watering
- Poor drainage
How to Treat Lawn Brown Patch
Effective treatment involves a combination of cultural practices and fungicides. Start by identifying infected areas early to prevent spread.
Apply Fungicides
Use a fungicide containing active ingredients like azoxystrobin, propiconazole, or chlorothalonil. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for application rates and timing. Typically, applying fungicides every 7-14 days during peak conditions helps control the disease.
Improve Lawn Conditions
Reduce watering frequency and ensure deep, infrequent watering early in the morning. Aerate your lawn to improve drainage and reduce thatch buildup. Mowing at the correct height also promotes healthy grass growth.
Prevention Tips for Brown Patch
Preventing brown patch is easier than treating it after infection. Implement these practices to keep your lawn healthy and resilient.
Maintain Proper Lawn Care
- Mow regularly at the recommended height for your grass type
- Aerate and dethatch your lawn annually
- Water early in the day to allow grass to dry
- Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote strong roots
Manage Environmental Conditions
- Improve drainage in wet areas
- Reduce humidity around the lawn if possible
- Limit watering during the hottest part of the day
By following these treatment and prevention strategies, you can keep your lawn healthy and vibrant throughout June and beyond, minimizing the impact of brown patch disease.