What is leaf spot?

Leaf spot disease is a common fungal infection that affects lawns and ornamental plants. It occurs in environments where temperatures are between 40-80° F, and in soils with high nitrogen levels. It typically manifests as small, circular, or irregularly shaped lesions or spots on the blades of grass and plants. These spots can vary in color, often starting as yellow or brown and eventually turning dark brown or black. Leaf spot disease is caused by various fungal pathogens and thrives in conditions of high humidity and moisture.

The impact of leaf spot disease on lawns is primarily aesthetic but can also weaken the overall health of the grass. As the disease spreads, it can result in the browning and thinning of grass. In severe cases, the fungus attacks the crown and roots and can result in dead grass.

Proper lawn care practices, including regular mowing, and appropriate watering techniques, can help prevent and manage leaf spot disease. Fungicides like Lawn Fungus Control may also be used when necessary to control its spread.

What to do:

• Apply Lawn Fungus Control when the disease first appears and make applications at 14-day intervals as needed.
• Increase the frequency and height of mowing. This will cut off the dead ends, and reduce stress on the grass plant.
• Irrigate deeply, and as infrequently as possible.
• Apply Love Your Soil as a way to break up compacted soil, and allow water to penetrate into the ground.

What NOT to do:

• Do not apply more fertilizer, this will only further agitate the problem.
• Reduce the amount of surface water. Fungus thrives in moist, humid environments. If your soil is hard and compacted water will sit at the surface instead of penetrating deep into the ground where it can reach the grass roots.