Common Lawn Diseases in Harnett County and How to Prevent Them

# Common Lawn Diseasesrm, humid summers create ideal conditions for lawn diseases. If you live in Lillington, Anderson Creek, or the surrounding areas, understanding these common diseases can help you protect your lawn — or recognize problems early enough to treat them effectively.

Brown Patch (Rhizoctonia)

Brown patch is the most common lawn disease in our area, primarily affecting Fescue lawns during hot, humid weather.

**Symptoms:** Circular brown patches 6 inches to several feet in diameter, often with a darker "smoke ring" border in early morning.

**Conditions:** Night temperatures above 65°F combined with high humidity and wet leaf surfaces.

**Prevention:** Avoid evening irrigation, maintain proper mowing height, and don't over-fertilize with nitrogen during summer.

Dollar Spot

Dollar spot affects Bermuda and Zoysia lawns, creating small, silver-dollar-sized dead spots that can merge into larger areas.

**Symptoms:** Small bleached spots on individual grass blades, straw-colored patches 2-6 inches in diameter.

**Conditions:** Low nitrogen fertility, drought stress, and heavy dew.

**Prevention:** Maintain adequate nitrogen levels, water deeply but infrequently, and remove morning dew when possible.

Pythium Blight

Pythium is a fast-moving disease that can devastate a lawn in 24-48 hours during hot, humid conditions.

**Symptoms:** Greasy, dark patches that appear suddenly, often following drainage patterns. White cottony mycelium visible in early morning.

**Conditions:** Temperatures above 85°F, high humidity, and poor drainage.

**Prevention:** Improve drainage, avoid compaction, and ensure adequate air circulation.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice unusual discoloration, circular patterns, or rapid lawn decline, contact us for a diagnosis. Early identification and treatment can save your lawn from extensive damage. Our plant health care programs include disease monitoring and preventive fungicide applications for high-risk properties.