As temperatures continue to warm and our plants come back into the active growing season, it’s important to watch for signs of disease and damage. There are many pests that can cause permanent damage to your turfgrass, so make sure that you’re diligent in assessing your lawn and addressing any issues in a timely manner and with the appropriate treatments. Here are some common problems to look for:
- Fungal disease such as red thread, brown patch, spring dead spot and leaf spot. There are many treatments you can use to remedy these issues, and the great news is that proper cultural practices can also help prevent these diseases from taking root. Be sure to always follow label directions when using any lawn chemical.
- Insect pressure from pests such as mole crickets, grubs, chinch bugs and crane flies. Some of these pests infect soil and roots, some feed on leaves and stems, while others feeding on plant juice. No matter which method, all of these insects can cause significant damage to your turfgrass.
- Weed growth is a fact of life for most homeowners. From white clover to dandelion to creeping Charlie, with the change of season comes a diverse range of plant life. Identifying the weed and treating appropriately is vital to creating a beautiful lawn. Make sure you know whether you should treat pre- or post- emergence to get the best results. Many common lawn weeds can require multiple treatments to fully control.
No matter what ails your spring lawn, diligence and careful treatment can have it in pristine condition – just be sure to always follow label instructions or consult with a professional for lawn treatments.