Got lawn problems? It may be one of these fungal diseases
Jul 25, 2025, 2:00 PM
Fairy ring is one of the most common lawn diseases. (Larry Sagers)
(Larry Sagers)
SALT LAKE CITY — Is your lawn looking a little dead? It may be the result of a fungal disease.
What causes lawn diseases?
While some lawns never encounter any issues, others always seem to suffer from some kind of pest or disease. The reason is simple. Those lawns are overly maintained.
“Let the grass grow to 3 inches. Let the grass dry out a little bit between irrigations, not to brown it out. Only fertilize two or three times a year, depending on how the turf is used,” said KSL Greenhouse host Taun Beddes.
Necrotic ring spot
Necrotic ring spot is a dead spot that expands outwards, typically in the shape of a ring. Most of the grass dies, but the grass in the middle of the ring can partially recover.
“Good lawn care is going to go a long way, but you can try fungicides. The most effective time to do a fungicide for … necrotic ring spot is in the spring when we’re consistently (at) 70 degrees,” Beddes said.
If the fungicides aren’t working, there are necrotic ring spot-resistant turf varieties like fescue available online and at local companies.
Fairy ring
Fairy ring occurs when the grass on the edges behind the dead grass grows quickly. This harms the crowns but not the roots, and the grass does recover.
“Fairy ring is more active in the spring and fall, although it can be active in the summer,” Beddes added.
Summer patch
Summer patch is an active lawn disease during the summer because it tolerates hotter temperatures. The key to managing this is not to water excessively during extremely hot periods. Instead, water deeply and less often.
“With the necrotic ring spot, it’s recommended to spritz the lawn in the mornings between irrigations to help the lawn … recover more quickly. With summer patch, you don’t do that,” Beddes said.
Ascochyta
Ascochyta, which targets drought-stressed lawns, has become far more common over the last five years.
“Fortunately, ascochyta doesn’t kill the crowns. It just goes after the blades,” Beddes said. “You usually don’t need to treat for it, but it’s often mistaken for drought stress.”
Read more from the KSL Greenhouse show:
- How to prevent billbug damage in your grass
- Looking for a colorful vegetable that’s easy to grow? Try beets
- Benefits of using mulch in your garden and flower beds
KSL Greenhouse is live on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
