Fungi are all around us. And, no, we aren’t referring to your hilarious buddy that cracks the best jokes, although he sounds like a “fun guy” (pun intended). Instead, we’re talking about lawn fungi, microorganisms responsible for decomposing organic matter and releasing nutrients that are beneficial to a healthy, green lawn. However, if disease develops, fungi are no laughing matter. Today on the blog, find out how to tell if your lawn has fungi and five ways to prevent it.
What are lawn fungi?
Lawn fungi are actually beneficial. As we mentioned earlier, it is responsible for breaking down organic matter, which provides necessary nutrients to your grass and other plants. Fungi is natural and all around us. You just can’t see it until it becomes diseased. These microorganisms remain dormant until the right conditions cause them to attack, like when your lawn is under stress. Changes in weather and temperatures, too much moisture, and even the grade of your lawn could cause fungi to develop. Wet and humid climates are more likely to result in lawn fungi. So, while those April showers bring May flowers, you might also discover lawn fungi too!
How do fungi spread?
The wind, rain, and even mowing your lawn can easily spread fungi to other areas of your property or your neighbor’s. Since fungi prefer wet, damp environments, it is more likely to spread when it’s wet than during the dry, hot summer. While you might be able to spot fungi in your lawn, sometimes it remains hidden. Mushrooms are a common sign of lawn fungi. Lawn fungi usually start as patches of different shapes, sizes, and colors, like yellow, tan, or brown, and the patches spread fast if not treated.
Preventing lawn fungi
Lawn fungi can wreak havoc on your landscape, undoing years of hard work! However, proper maintenance reduces the likelihood of fungi developing in your lawn. Our Kingsport landscapers share helpful ways to prevent lawn fungi in the first place.
Water your lawn properly
Determining how much water your lawn needs can be a bit tricky, especially if you are a new homeowner and aren’t used to your new property. There is a fine line between a lawn getting just enough or too much hydration. Check out these lawn water tips to ensure your lawn gets the right amount.
Water your lawn early in the morning, ideally between 6 am-10 am. It gives the water a chance to soak in before the sun appears and dries it up. Avoid watering after dark, as it could leave the soil damp, which is the perfect condition for fungi development.
Water deep by providing a minimum of half an inch to one inch of water per session (including rainfall). Watering in this way encourages deep root growth, which helps grass absorb nutrients, oxygen, and moisture better than shallow root systems.
Sew the right type of grass for your zone
Many different grass varieties exist, and each come with their own pros and cons. Depending on whether you want green grass year-round or prefer a cool- or warm-season grass will determine the type of seed you sow in your lawn. Popular grass types in East Tennessee are Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Fescue, although homeowners also prefer Bermudagrass or Zoysia. If you aren’t sure which type of grass is best for your lawn, consult with a Kingsport landscaper for more information because it’s important to sew the right grass suitable for our climate.
Cut your grass to the correct height
Proper mowing heights can hinder or foster fungi growth. Different grass types require varying mowing heights. Cutting grass isn’t as simple as cranking up the lawnmower and making passes across your yard. Mowing height directly relates to your grass’s ability to maintain health and beauty. You can check online resources or speak with a Kingsport grass cutting company, Promier Landscapes, for the best way to mow your specific type of grass.
Apply fertilizer or fungicide to your lawn
Slow-release fertilizers containing the right amount of nitrogen can remedy lawn fungi issues. Liquid or granular types are both effective. Promier Landscapes advises that you follow the instructions on the packaging for applying the fertilizer. Usually, fertilizer or fungicides respond best when applied several times, with at least one to two weeks between each application. Fungi can become resistant to fungicides. Therefore, you may need to change to a different type for the best results.
Lawn care company in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol
Maintaining a beautiful, healthy lawn requires a lot of work and maintenance. You can protect your lawn against diseases and pests by following advice from the pros. If you need help maintaining your lawn or need to get rid of lawn fungus in Kingsport, call Promier Landscapes at (423) 872-2988.