Common Lawn Diseases and How to Prevent Them

Low nitrogen levels and poor soil health create the perfect conditions for this fungus.

Prevention:

• Maintain regular fertilization to strengthen grass.
• Avoid watering at night.
• Mow consistently with sharp blades.

Treatment:
Balanced fertilization and targeted fungicide treatments restore lawn health and color.

3. Take-All Root Rot

What it looks like:
Yellowing grass that thins over time, often confused with drought damage. Roots may appear black and decayed.

Cause:
This soil-borne fungus (Gaeumannomyces graminis) attacks roots in compacted or poorly drained soil.

Prevention:

• Improve drainage with core aeration.
• Keep soil pH slightly acidic (6.0–6.5).
• Avoid heavy watering and fertilizer during stress periods.

Treatment:
Professional fungicides and soil conditioning from Anointed Lawn Care can help rebuild soil health and restore strong root growth.

4. Gray Leaf Spot

What it looks like:
Small gray or tan lesions on grass blades, eventually turning fuzzy or moldy in appearance.

Cause:
Common during hot, rainy periods when moisture lingers on the grass surface.

Prevention:

• Mow regularly to reduce humidity between blades.
• Water deeply but infrequently.
• Use proper fertilization to prevent overgrowth.

Treatment:
Timely fungicide applications combined with moisture control minimize outbreaks and protect new growth.

5. Rust Fungus

What it looks like:
Orange or yellow dust-like spores on blades that rub off easily.

Cause:
Rust develops when lawns experience slow growth, often due to low nitrogen or drought stress.

Prevention:

• Maintain balanced fertilization.
• Keep mowing consistent.
• Water deeply to promote strong root growth.

Treatment:
Fertilization, watering adjustments, and disease-targeted treatments restore normal color and vigor.

6. Powdery Mildew

What it looks like:
White, powdery coating on grass blades—especially in shaded, humid areas.

Cause:
Poor air circulation and excessive moisture promote mildew growth.

Prevention:

• Trim nearby shrubs to increase airflow.
• Avoid watering in the evening.
• Plant shade-tolerant grass varieties if needed.

Treatment:
Professional fungicide applications and improved airflow eliminate mildew and prevent recurrence.

7. Lawn Disease Prevention Basics

The best way to fight lawn disease is to stop it before it starts. Most fungal problems develop due to stress, poor watering, or nutrient imbalance.

Follow these best practices:
✅ Water early in the day to allow blades to dry.
✅ Aerate compacted soil to improve oxygen flow.
✅ Fertilize appropriately—avoid too much nitrogen in hot months.
✅ Mow regularly with sharp blades.
✅ Partner with professionals for seasonal treatments and monitoring.

Anointed Lawn Care’s lawn disease control program includes early detection, targeted treatments, and soil improvement strategies to protect your turf year-round.

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