Teg Blog & News

Lawn diseases can quickly transform your beautiful Fresno yard into a patchy, discolored mess. Given the unique climate of the Central Valley, several diseases are especially prevalent and challenging to manage. However, with proper identification, prevention, and treatment strategies, you can keep your lawn healthy and vibrant year-round.

Common Lawn Diseases

One common issue is Brown Patch, characterized by circular brown patches with dark rings that can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter. These patches typically worsen in humid, hot weather. To treat brown patch, reduce the frequency of irrigation, improve air circulation around your lawn, apply fungicides when necessary, and maintain a proper mowing height.

Another frequent problem is Dollar Spot, which appears as small, circular, straw-colored patches roughly the size of silver dollars. Early in the morning, you might notice white, cobweb-like growth on these spots, especially in lawns that lack sufficient nutrients. Managing dollar spot involves ensuring adequate nitrogen levels, watering deeply but infrequently, and reducing the duration of leaf wetness. Planting resistant grass varieties can also help reduce its occurrence.

Pythium Blight is a rapidly spreading disease marked by greasy, dark, water-soaked patches that often exhibit cotton-like growth in the early morning. This disease tends to develop in areas with overwatering and poor drainage. Improving drainage, reducing irrigation, applying targeted fungicides, and enhancing air circulation are key steps to combat Pythium blight.

Prevention Strategies

Effective prevention starts with sound cultural practices. Water your lawn early in the morning to minimize evaporation and avoid watering in the evening, which can leave moisture on the grass overnight and promote disease. Additionally, maintain a consistent and appropriate irrigation schedule to prevent overwatering.

Mowing techniques also play a crucial role. Keep your mower blades sharp and set your mower to an appropriate height so you never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Clean your equipment between uses to avoid transferring pathogens from one area to another.

Soil management is equally important. Regular soil testing helps ensure that your lawn maintains the proper pH and nutrient balance, and it can indicate whether you need to improve drainage or reduce compaction. By addressing these underlying issues, you create an environment that is less conducive to disease.

Seasonal care adjustments can make a significant difference. In the spring, clear away debris, apply preventive fungicides if needed, and start a consistent mowing schedule while keeping an eye out for early signs of disease. During the humid summer months, adjust watering practices and maintain proper air circulation. In the fall, reduce nitrogen applications, clean up fallen leaves and debris, and take steps to prevent moisture accumulation as you prepare your lawn for winter.

Professional Treatment Options

When diseases escalate or DIY treatments fail, professional care may be necessary. Expert lawn care providers offer comprehensive evaluations, soil testing, and custom treatment plans using professional-grade fungicides and equipment. They can also suggest cultural modifications—such as soil amendments, improved drainage, thatch management, and aeration services—to help prevent future outbreaks.

At The Experienced Gardener, our disease management program is designed to provide regular monitoring, early detection, and tailored preventive treatments. Whether you need one-time intervention or ongoing maintenance, we’re equipped to help you maintain a resilient, disease-resistant lawn.

Take Action

Don’t let lawn diseases compromise your yard's beauty and health. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential in Fresno’s challenging climate. Contact The Experienced Gardener today for a professional lawn evaluation, customized disease prevention plan, and expert treatment solutions. With our ongoing maintenance programs, you can enjoy a healthier, more robust lawn throughout the year.