Treating Necrotic Ring Spot in Clarkston, Michigan

Necrotic Ring Spot is a common turfgrass disease affecting lawns in Clarkston, especially during hot and humid summer months. Characterized by circular, dead patches of grass with green grass in the center of the ring, Necrotic Ring Spot can severely impact the health and appearance of your lawn if not properly managed. The disease is caused by the fungus Leptosphaeria korrae, which thrives in stressed, compacted soils with poor drainage.

The first step in treating necrotic ring spot is proper lawn care maintenance. Aerating the soil is essential to relieve compaction, control thatch build up, encourage root growth and improve water and nutrient absorption. Ensuring that your grass is mowed at the correct height (about 2.5 to 3 inches for cool-season grasses) can also help reduce stress on the turf.

Fungicides can be effective for controlling Necrotic Ring Spot, but timing is critical. Apply fungicides in early spring before the disease symptoms become apparent. It's also important to keep your lawn healthy with proper watering and fertilization. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth, and use a balanced fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients. During the hotter months of the summer, July and August, a light mid-day watering will help relieve turf stress by cooling the grass.

Regular overseeding with resistant grass varieties is another preventive measure that can help ensure a lush lawn and minimize the risk of Necrotic Ring Spot outbreaks. By implementing these strategies, homeowners in Clarkston can keep their lawns green and healthy, even in the face of this challenging turf disease.