An astounding number of fungi, nearly 400, are known to infect lawn surfaces. While most of them are seasonal and do not cause any lasting damage, there are at least 100 species of fungi which can send a healthy green surface into decay.

However, to identify the fungus causing damage is quite a challenge. Some common lawn diseases are:

Fairy rings: A fungus that forms a barrier in the soil causes these. This results in the creation of rings of grass interspersed by dead grass. Treatment of this condition is tricky and often the entire area of infection will need to be replaced.

Rust: The lawn color changes to yellow and an orange/rust powder given out by the fungus appears on the infected grass. Lawns lacking in nitrogen are more susceptible to this condition.

Dollar spots: Circular spots of yellow/straw colored grass are formed due to fungal infection. Soil fertility should be examined to prevent this condition.

Toadstools and Puffballs: Build up of thatch and organic matter provides conditions for the growth of toadstools and puffballs in the lawn. Raking or using a mechanical dethatcher to prevent this condition must dethatch the lawn.

Red Thread: Lack of nitrogen in the soil can result in a fungal infection that first decolorizes the grass and then forms a reddish-pink thread like growth on the grass stems.

Snow mold: This infection sets in when snow sits on the grass for a long time.

To prevent lawns getting infected by fungi, the golden rule is to take preventive steps.

Lawn thatch should be removed regularly as excessive thatch is a hotbed for disease-causing organisms and can severely damage the lawn.

Mechanical aeration is also required to activate soil microbial activity to prevent thatch.

Watering in the morning should be preferred as watering later in the day can keep the grass moist overnight making it more susceptible to diseases.

Adequate drainage is also essential for the same reason.

Mowing should be done properly with sharp mowing blades, as jagged and irregular cuts provide an invasive route for fungal spores. The height of the grass should be ideally 2-2 1/2 inches.

Check the soil pH and correct it if necessary.

Fertilize the garden with slow release fertilizers, correcting nutrient deficiencies.

If after all these precautions fungal infection sets in, get the fungal type analyzed by a laboratory. You can then use the recommended fungicide or adopt an all-natural approach so that soil microorganisms do not perish.

Using compost can suppress fungal infections. Pathologists believe that use of compost is beneficial, as they contain antagonistic microorganism that suppress fungal growth. Application of Neem oil on a 7-14 day schedule is also very beneficial to suppress fungal infections.

Here is another great article about fertilizing your Lawn & Garden

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