What is Summer Patch?

Summer patch is a root disease that commonly affects lawns with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue grasses. As the fungus responsible for the disease invades the lawn's roots, circular patches, around 2 - 3 inches in diameter, will begin to appear. They often start as a yellow color, turning straw-brown as the lawn disease causes the grass plant to die, and can spread to be as large as 12 inches in diameter.

Conditions Favoring the Disease 

Summer patch often occurs in mid-summer when wet weather or heavy irrigation are followed by extended periods of high temperatures exceeding 82˚F. Lawns that are shaded, have poor drainage, or are compacted have a much higher chance of suffering from the disease.

Management

Cultural practices that promote positive root growth, such as aeration, help to improve drainage on lawns suffering from compaction. Additionally, raising the height of your mower blade may lessen the extent of summer patch injury.

Weed Man Lawn Care Madison Can Help!

Weed Man Lawn Care Madison is here to help. Weed Man Madison’s turf specialists can recognize Summer Patch disease and make recommendations to help your lawn. Weed Man Madison’s specially blended slow release fertilizer applied at the right time is the first step in preventing Summer Patch. Weed Man Madison’s fertilizer helps create healthy turf by slowly feeding the lawn as it needs it encouraging deep rooting systems. Your local Weed Man Madison professional will also be able advise you on any other treatments or cultural practices that may be necessary to help your turf remain healthy and vigorous.