The end of summer doesn't mean that your lawn is safe from disease. Lawn diseases can appear year round, which is why it's vital to keep your lawn healthy no matter what the season! So what lawn diseases should you be aware of for the late summer and early fall? We have the list!
Goose Grass
Also known as cleavers, this weed usually becomes present in the late summer. It is very similar to crabgrass. Goose grass will grow in a “wagon wheel” shape and it can produce thousands of seeds, making it very difficult to control and get rid of. It’s thicker than regular grass blades and it has splayed tufts with finger-like blades. Goose grass can be hard to mow and it is usually spread by wind, which also makes it very hard to control.
Dollar Spot
Dollar spot is a lawn fungus that is caused by Scerlotinia homeocarpa. This lawn disease will typically occur in clusters and it will change the color of your grass blades, turning them brown or tan. The spots usually are round and the size of a silver dollar (hence the name), but good news is that this disease will not affect the roots of your lawn.
Lawn Rust
You know those orange-brown specks on your lawn? The reason your shoes are orange? Yes that’s lawn rust. This disease will also attack the blades of your grass and the presence of it usually means that your lawn is low on nitrogen.
The key to keeping any lawn healthy and green is proper maintenance! Follow proper mowing, watering, and fertilization techniques and your lawn will be less vulnerable to disease. Keeping your lawn healthy all year round is important. What you do in the fall for your lawn can help it have a healthy start for the spring. So what should you do if you need more help? Call us today at 443-846-0199 or email info@rootedinnaturemd.com to learn more and schedule a consultation with our Maryland landscaping experts.