Common Lawn Diseases That Plague New Jersey Yards
New Jersey lawns are susceptible to various diseases, especially during warm, humid seasons or extended periods of rain. Fungal infections are often the primary cause of these lawn diseases, which can damage grass, creating unsightly patches and bare spots. Understanding the symptoms and causes of these common lawn diseases can help you protect your yard. When you need lawn care in Succasunna, NJ, or the surrounding areas, contact High Class Tree Service.
Brown Patch Disease, caused by the Rhizoctonia fungus, is one of the most prevalent lawn diseases in New Jersey, especially during warm, humid summers. It appears as brown or tan patches, usually circular in shape and varying from a few inches to several feet in diameter. Brown Patch thrives in over-fertilized lawns with high nitrogen levels and inadequate drainage.
To manage Brown Patch, reduce nitrogen fertilization during peak summer months, ensure proper lawn aeration, and water your lawn in the early morning so the grass has time to dry before nightfall. Fungicides may also help if the disease is severe.
Dollar Spot Disease is another common fungal infection, appearing as small, silver-dollar-sized spots that may merge into larger patches if left untreated. The disease often strikes Kentucky bluegrass and bentgrass and thrives in dry conditions or when lawns are low in nitrogen.
Frequent watering, a balanced nitrogen fertilization program, and mowing at the proper height can help prevent Dollar Spot Disease. Applying a fungicide can also be effective, especially if the disease has spread.
Red Thread is caused by the Laetisaria fuciformis fungus, which creates reddish or pink thread-like structures on grass blades. This disease is common in cool, damp conditions during spring and fall, and it’s particularly attracted to lawns that are low in nitrogen.
Maintaining adequate nitrogen levels and regularly mowing and dethatching can help reduce Red Thread. Fungicides are rarely necessary, as the disease often subsides on its own with improved lawn care practices.
Snow Mold affects lawns in late winter and early spring when melting snow provides the moist conditions the fungus thrives on. This disease appears as gray or pink circular patches, often with a slimy texture. Snow Mold is especially common after long winters with heavy snowfall and is particularly damaging to Kentucky bluegrass and fescue varieties. Raking matted grass and removing excess snow can help prevent Snow Mold. Aeration in the fall and avoiding high nitrogen levels late in the season are also beneficial.
A lush, green lawn is the foundation of a beautiful landscape. High Class Tree Service provides expert lawn care services to keep your grass healthy, vibrant, and weed-free. From regular mowing and edging to fertilization and aeration, we offer comprehensive lawn maintenance programs in Morris County, NJ that are designed to promote optimal growth and ensure your lawn looks its best year-round. If you’d like a quote for the cost of routine lawn care in Succasunna, don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team at
973-270-9505.
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