Gray leaf spot is a common lawn disease in South Florida that affects St. Augustine sod grass more than other types of warm season grasses. Gray leaf spot is brought on by the Pyricularia grisea fungus and is recognizable by the oblong spots with gray centers on the individual blades of grass. In time, the disease thins out enough blades where it is easily noticeable and if left untreated eventually will kill off large sections of your South Florida lawn. Gray leaf spot fungus thrives in the hot, rainy months of Palm Beach County and prolonged periods of wetness will increase the likelihood of the disease spreading. Catching this lawn pathogen early is key to minimizing damage.
St. Augustine Sod Grass is Highly Susceptible to Gray Leaf Spot Lawn Disease
The best prevention for gray leaf spot disease is to maintain a healthy lawn with proper fertilization, irrigation and removing any excess buildup of thatch that may contribute to drainage issues. Aeration, preventative fungicides and soil amendments can also be very beneficial if gray leaf spot is an ongoing problem. Poor air circulation, poor drainage and anything that causes prolonged moisture in your lawn will increase the likelihood of grey leaf spot disease. Run irrigation systems in the early morning so your lawn has time to dry naturally in the sun and breeze.
Will Gray Leaf Spot Disease Go Away Without Treatment?
Gray leaf spot fungus doesn’t like dry, cold weather, so it may disappear during the winter. But this is a lawn disease that is easily treatable and can cost you a lot of money if it kills large patches of turf grass, so you should take care of any gray leaf spot fungus when you first notice any symptoms. In recurring problem areas, use a preventive fungicide in the early spring to try and avoid it altogether.
Do Fungicides Work on Gray Leaf Spot Disease?
Yes! Gray leaf spot disease is easily manageable with the use of the proper fungicides. And again, in recurring problem areas, use a preventive fungicide in the early spring to try and avoid it altogether.
Why not leave your lawn fungus problems to a professional? Our highly trained pest control and fertilization technicians have been keeping the lawns of West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, Jupiter and other Palm Beach County, Florida cities lush, green and fungus free for over twenty five years.
