There are many types of grasses a homeowner can choose that will provide you with a lush, green lawn. Zoysia is a popular variety of grass due to its water tolerance and ability to recover. However, zoysia patch, a disease that affects zoysia grass, can wreak havoc on this grass.
Understanding what you need to know about zoysia patch can be the difference between a thriving lawn and a patchy, unattractive one. Learn more about what zoysia patch is, the symptoms, what to do when you have it, how you can prevent this disease, and how TurfPride can help.
What Is Zoysia Patch and What Causes It?
Zoysia patch, also known as Rhizoctonia blight, is a fungal disease that primarily affects zoysia grass. The fungus responsible, Rhizoctonia solani, thrives in specific environmental conditions, namely warm, humid weather combined with excessive moisture and poor drainage.
Causes of Zoysia Patch:
- Excessive Thatch: A build-up of thatch can create a hospitable environment for the fungus by retaining moisture.
- Overwatering: Saturated soil is a prime breeding ground for fungal growth.
- Poor Air Circulation: Dense landscaping and certain grass varieties may restrict airflow, contributing to fungal proliferation.
- Nutrient Imbalance: Too much nitrogen can increase susceptibility, while insufficient potassium weakens resistance.
Understanding the causes of zoysia patch is critical for effective prevention and management. By addressing these underlying factors, homeowners can create a less favorable environment for the fungus.
Symptoms of Zoysia Patch and How To Identify It
Identifying zoysia patch early is crucial for minimizing its impact on your lawn. The symptoms can vary, but they typically manifest as circular patches of discolored grass.
Key Symptoms:
- Circular Patches: Look for circular or irregular patches that are brown, tan, or yellow. These can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter.
- Outer Ring: The patches often have a distinct outer ring that is darker in color, indicating active fungal growth.
- Leaf Lesions: Infected leaves may display small, water-soaked lesions that turn reddish-brown.
- Progression: Without intervention, these patches can expand and merge, resulting in large areas of affected turf.
To confirm the presence of zoysia patch, conduct a closer examination. A magnifying glass may reveal mycelium—a white, web-like fungal growth—particularly during the morning when dew is present. If you’re uncertain, consider consulting a lawn care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Steps To Take if Zoysia Patch Appears
If Zoysia Patch has taken hold in your lawn, act quickly and methodically. Here’s a step-by-step approach to managing and recovering from this condition:
Reduce Moisture
Begin by adjusting your watering schedule to reduce excess moisture. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between sessions. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Improve Air Circulation
Enhance airflow around the grass by pruning nearby shrubs or trees. This can help the lawn dry out faster and discourage fungal growth.
Fungicide Application
Applying a fungicide specifically designed for treating zoysia patch can be effective. Choose a product containing active ingredients, such as azoxystrobin or propiconazole. Follow the label instructions carefully for application timing and dosage.
Avoid Over-fertilizing
Reduce nitrogen fertilization during the active disease period, as excessive nitrogen can exacerbate the problem. Use balanced fertilizers according to soil test recommendations.
Manage Thatch
If thatch build-up is an issue, consider dethatching the lawn to enhance its health and recovery. This process can help remove the organic layer where fungi thrive.
Monitor and Maintain
Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of recovery or further spread of the disease. Continue to follow best practices for lawn care to ensure a quick and healthy recovery.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing Zoysia Patch from occurring in the first place is the best approach to maintaining a healthy lawn. Here are some effective prevention strategies:
- Optimize Mowing Practices: Mow at the recommended height for Zoysia grass (about 1.5 to 2 inches) and keep your mower blades sharp to prevent stress on the grass.
- Rotate Lawn Care Practices: Avoid repetitive mowing patterns and vary the direction of your cuts to prevent soil compaction and alleviate stress on the grass.
- Follow Proper Irrigation Techniques: Water the lawn in the early morning to allow the grass to dry throughout the day. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
- Aerate the Soil: Regular aeration reduces soil compaction and improves drainage, promoting a healthier root system and preventing fungal growth.
- Use Disease-Resistant Cultivars: If planting new zoysia sod or seed, consider using disease-resistant varieties that are less prone to fungal infections.
- Balanced Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer based on soil test results to maintain healthy growth without over-stimulating with nitrogen.
- Encourage a Diverse Lawn: Consider planting a mixed variety of grasses or ground covers. Biodiversity can help reduce the impact of specific diseases, as different species may be more resilient to certain pathogens.
By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of zoysia patch and ensure your lawn remains lush and vibrant.
TurfPride’s Help
Is your lawn struggling with issues like zoysia patch or other common turf problems? Look no further than TurfPride, the experts in customized lawn care services designed to meet your specific needs.
With a deep understanding of local lawn conditions and a commitment to excellence, TurfPride offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure your lawn stays lush and healthy year-round. TurfPride has the expertise and tools to transform your yard into a verdant oasis. Trust us to deliver top-notch care and personalized solutions for all your lawn care needs.
Here is a glimpse into some of our services:
- Customized lawn care plans to tackle specific issues, including zoysia patch
- Expert lawn fertilization to support healthy grass growth
- Professional aeration to improve soil health and water absorption
- Comprehensive diagnostic services to identify and address lawn problems
- Effective weed control to keep your lawn pristine
- Reliable insect control to protect your grass from damaging pests
Reach out to TurfPride today for unparalleled lawn care services and enjoy a vibrant, thriving yard!
Maintaining a beautiful zoysia lawn requires vigilance and proactive care, especially when facing challenges like zoysia patch. By understanding what you need to know about zoysia patch, you can overcome this common lawn adversary. Should you need further assistance, TurfPride is here to provide expert guidance and customized lawn care services to keep your lawn in peak condition.