Protect Your Lawn from Fall Brown Patch (Large Patch Disease)
As temperatures start to drop in the fall, Brown Patch Disease—also called Large Patch Disease—can affect St. Augustine and Zoysia lawns. This fungal disease creates unsightly circular patches in your yard, often with a small green center surrounded by an orange-brown halo.
Signs of Brown Patch Disease
- Circular orange-brown rings on your lawn
- Grass blades that pull out easily due to rotting at the base or crown
- Irregular patches that may spread if left untreated
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Why Fall Conditions Make It Worse
- Night-time temperatures dropping below 70°F encourage disease development
- Excessive watering at night worsens the problem
- High nitrogen fertilizers in October can accelerate the spread
How to Protect Your Lawn
- Water Wisely: Reduce watering, especially at night. Only water if necessary and do it in the morning to let grass dry during the day.
- Fertilizer Caution: Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers during October to prevent rapid disease spread.
- Apply Microgranular Soil Conditioner: October is an ideal time to use a microgranular soil conditioner or inoculant, which helps your lawn recover from Brown Patch disease and strengthens the soil for healthier growth.
By adjusting your watering schedule and applying the right soil treatments, you can help your lawn bounce back from Fall Brown Patch and keep it looking green and healthy all season long.