Spring Dead Spot

Q

My lawn has several very large brown patches across its surface, the began small and increased in size over time. I am told my lawn has Spring Dead Spot, is this true, and how can I cure the problem.

A

What you're describing definitely sounds like Spring Dead Spot, which is a lawn disease of Couch Grass. Spring Dead Spot will first become noticeable when the brown patches are about the size of a dinner plate, which will increase in size over time until they eventually reach up to a metre of more in diameter. In some cases, several patches of Spring Dead Spot can eventually merge together to become an even greater sized path.

Fungicide can be purchased for the treatment of Spring Dead Spot, however it's effectiveness is not always certain or guaranteed. As with all lawn fungus infestations, the very best cure for the disease is always the very best prevention, which always comes down to following good lawn care practices throughout the year. Proper lawn care practices will not only prevent the emergence of lawn disease in the first place, but will also go great lengths to curing the disease in most cases, as well as providing for a great and lovely looking lawn to be proud of.

Proper lawn care practices include only ever to water in the mornings and never at night, reduce watering if necessary to reduce soil moisture, fertilise regularly throughout the year with a quality lawn fertiliser, reduce shade by pruning surrounding trees, and by coring / aerating the lawn if the soil has become compacted over time.