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Treating and preventing fungal diseases in my lawn

A healthy, green lawn is a prized possession for many homeowners, but fungal diseases can quickly ruin its beauty. Lawn fungi can cause discolouration, dead grass patches, and even the death of large sections of grass. However, with the right strategies and products, treating and preventing fungal diseases is manageable. 

We’ll explore the common causes of fungal disease, how to treat lawn fungus, and key preventative measures like aeration, dethatching, and using fungicides, including those available from Lilydale Instant Lawn.

Plus, if you’re more of a visual learner - we’ve got plenty of videos covering the same topics. Watch our series on managing and preventing fungal disease in your lawn. 

What is fungal disease in lawns?

Fungal disease in your lawn refers to the infection caused by various types of fungi that thrive in specific environmental conditions, often leading to unsightly damage. These fungal infections typically appear as discoloured patches, dead grass, or unusual growth patterns such as rings and can spread quickly if left untreated.

Common causes of fungal disease

 Fungal diseases in your lawn can stem from several factors, many of which are environmental or related to lawn care habits. Understanding these causes is the first step in disease control, as well as treating and preventing lawn fungal disease.

Excessive moisture

 Lawns that experience heavy rain, over watering, or poor drainage are prime environments for fungal growth. Fungi thrive in damp conditions.

Improper mowing 

 Cutting your grass too short or mowing with dull blades can damage grass blades, making them susceptible to infection. Improper mowing also encourages fungal diseases such as fairy ring disease and brown patch.

Compacted soil

 When soil becomes compacted, water and nutrients struggle to reach the grass roots. This creates an environment where fungal infections like lawn fungus and lawn diseases can easily take hold.

Excessive thatch 

 Thatch is the layer of grass clippings, roots, and debris that accumulates between the soil and grass blades. While a thin layer of thatch can be beneficial, excessive thatch holds onto moisture and becomes a breeding ground for fungal growth.

Poor air circulation 

 Lack of airflow through grass blades can create humid conditions, ideal for fungal infections.

Recognising these causes can help you make the necessary adjustments to your lawn care routine, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

How do you treat lawn fungus?

If you’ve spotted symptoms of fungal disease—such as brown patches, fairy rings, or dead grass—it’s time to take action. Early treatment can prevent the spread of the fungus and restore your lawn’s health.

Here are some methods on how to eliminate lawn fungus. 

Remove dead grass and debris 

 Begin by raking away any dead grass and debris from the infected areas. This helps to remove fungal spores and allows your grass to breathe. Be sure to dispose of the grass clippings properly to avoid spreading the fungus to other areas of your lawn.

Aeration

 Compacted soil can exacerbate fungal problems by preventing water from draining properly. Aerating your lawn involves removing small plugs of soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the root zone. Aeration improves drainage and prevents excessive moisture buildup, a key contributor to fungal diseases. Aeration also helps reduce compaction and encourages stronger root growth, making your lawn more resistant to lawn fungal disease.

Dethatching

 Excessive thatch can suffocate your grass, trapping moisture and creating an environment ripe for fungal infections like brown patch. Dethatching removes this layer of organic matter, allowing your lawn to breathe and recover. Consider dethatching as part of your lawn disease treatment if your thatch layer exceeds half an inch.

Using a fungicide

 In some cases, lawn diseases may require the use of fungicides to kill the fungus and restore your lawn’s health. Fungicides are effective in treating lawn fungal disease, especially when used in conjunction with cultural practices like aeration and dethatching.

• Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural fungicide that can be used to treat lawn fungus without the use of harsh chemicals. Neem oil works by interfering with the fungus’s ability to reproduce, helping to eliminate lawn fungus over time. 
• Chemical fungicides: For severe fungal infections, chemical fungicides may be necessary. This kills fungus quickly and effectively. Lilydale Instant Lawn offers a range of fungicides that can be applied to treat fungal diseases such as fairy ring disease, brown patch, and more.

How to prevent fungus in lawn 

Preventing fungal diseases is always preferable to treating them after they occur. By following these proactive measures, you can minimise the risk of fungal infections in your lawn.

1. Proper watering: One of the most effective ways to prevent fungus in your lawn is by controlling moisture. Water your lawn deeply but less frequently, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between watering. This helps prevent the moist conditions that fungi love.
2. Adequate airflow: Improving airflow through your lawn can help prevent the development of fungal growth. Trim back overhanging branches and plants to allow sunlight and wind to reach the grass.
3. Balanced fertilisation: Over-fertilising your lawn with nitrogen can promote rapid growth that becomes weak and susceptible to fungus. Instead, focus on balanced fertilisation practices that support long-term lawn health.
4. Monitor soil pH: Fungi prefer acidic soils, so regularly check the pH of your soil. Lime can be used to adjust soil pH and create a less favourable environment for fungal diseases.

Treat fungal disease in your lawn with confidence 

 Fungal issues can be a serious threat to your lawn, but with proper care and preventative measures, you can keep your grass healthy and vibrant. Understanding the common causes of fungal infections helps you adjust your lawn care practices to prevent future outbreaks. 

 At Lilydale Instant Lawn, we offer a variety of fungicides and lawn care solutions to help you maintain a disease-free lawn. We’re experts in eradicating common lawn diseases and fungal infections. Take a look at our lawn care shop where you’ll find everything you need to prevent lawn fungus in the future.