Watch lawn closely for signs of fungus, grubs, over-watering

By Mark Deloach CONTRIBUTOR

As the weather warms up and lawns begin to come out of dormancy, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of fungus. Fungal diseases can quickly spread in damp and humid conditions, and excess watering can contribute to the problem.

It is crucial to water your lawn appropriately, making sure not to overwater, and to avoid watering in the evening when moisture can settle and create ideal conditions for fungal growth.

While watering is important, it’s critical not to water your lawn too frequently. Most lawns only need about an inch of water per week, and this can be adjusted based on rainfall. Watering deeply and less frequently can encourage deep root growth and make your lawn more drought resistant.

In addition to proper watering, it’s important not to fertilize your lawn until it’s fully greened up. Fertilizing too early can cause new growth that’s susceptible to disease and pest problems. Instead, wait until your lawn is actively growing and needs the added nutrients.

Now is a good time to apply grub and mole cricket control. These pests can cause significant damage to your lawn, and preventative measures can help to avoid costly repairs later in the season. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and apply the products at the appropriate times to ensure they are effective.

If certain areas of the lawn took a hit over the winter or if you’re looking for a boost in color or density, we recommend applying organic top dressing. A half-inch layer of organic compost will significantly help with growth, given the right environmental factors (proper sunlight and watering). We see thousands of dollars wasted on seed annually and would recommend this safer alternative if you are looking to enhance your existing lawn.

In summary, as lawns come out of dormancy, it’s important to watch out for fungus, avoid excess watering, wait to fertilize until your lawn is fully greened up, apply preventative measures for grub and mole cricket control, and water appropriately based on rainfall and the needs of your lawn. By following these tips, you can help ensure a healthy and thriving lawn throughout the growing season.