Treating Necrotic Ring Spot in Lake Orion, Michigan

Necrotic Ring Spot is a fungal disease that affects the root system of lawns in Lake Orion, Michigan, particularly during the warm summer months. This disease creates circular patches of dead grass, often with live grass in the center of the ring. It is caused by Leptosphaeria korrae, a fungus that thrives in compacted soils with poor drainage. It is especially problematic on lawns that were sodded or lawns with a high thatch layer.

To effectively treat necrotic ring spot in Lake Orion, homeowners should begin with soil aeration to reduce compaction and break up the thatch layer. Aerating improves water infiltration and promotes deeper root growth, increasing the overall health of the grass plants.

Mowing at the proper height (around 3 inches for cool-season grasses) also helps prevent stress, which can exacerbate fungal infections. A higher mowing height encourages deeper root growth, shades the soil to lessen heat stress on roots and reduces competition from weeds.

Fungicide applications are an important component in the management of Necrotic Ring Spot. Early spring applications, when the disease first becomes active, are typically most effective. At this time of the year the disease is active, but hasn’t began to adversely affect the grass plants yet.

In addition to fungicides, regular watering and fertilization practices can help keep the lawn strong. In addition to normal watering, a light midday watering to cool the grass down can minimize heat stress on the lawn.

Overseeding with resistant varieties of grass can further strengthen your lawn. Regular overseeding helps fill in the dead patches caused by necrotic ring spot, ensuring that the turf remains lush and healthy. By following these preventive steps, residents of Lake Orion can manage this difficult lawn disease.

For more information, or to schedule a fungicide program for your lawn, drop us a message or give us a call today at 800-724-6680.