Identifying and Treating Common Lawn Diseases in New Zealand

A Guide to a Healthy Lawn Throughout the Seasons

As the vibrant New Zealand summer gives way to the cooler days of autumn, vigilant lawn care is crucial for preventing and managing common lawn diseases. With this guide from Fox Mowing & Gardening, you'll learn to identify early signs of trouble and implement effective treatments to keep your lawn in peak condition.

Common Lawn Diseases in New Zealand

Brown Patch - Characterized by circular patches of brown, wilted grass, brown patch thrives in humid conditions. It often appears when nighttime temperatures exceed 15°C and the lawn remains damp.

‍Rust - Rust disease leaves an orange or yellowish powdery residue on grass blades, resembling rust on metal. It typically emerges when growth is slow, and there's plenty of moisture.

‍Dollar Spot - Named for the silver dollar-sized spots that appear on lawns, dollar spot can spread rapidly in moist, warm conditions, leaving small, sunken patches.

Treatment Strategies

Cultural Control - The first line of defense involves cultural practices that foster a robust lawn, reducing the incidence of disease:

• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth, which is less susceptible to disease.
• Mowing: Keep your mower blades sharp and mow at a height appropriate for your grass type to reduce stress.
• Aeration: Regularly aerate your lawn to improve drainage and reduce thatch buildup.

Chemical and Organic Solutions - If diseases progress, consider the following treatments:

• Fungicides: Apply fungicides as a last resort for severe infestations, following the manufacturer's instructions closely.
• Organic Options: Neem oil and other organic treatments can help manage mild outbreaks without harsh chemicals.

Preventive Measures

Prevent lawn diseases by maintaining a healthy lawn:

• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer to avoid the excessive nitrogen that can promote disease.
• Disease-resistant Varieties: When establishing or overseeding, choose grass varieties that are resistant to common diseases.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've applied treatments and cultural practices without success, or if the disease has spread significantly, it's time to call in the lawn care professionals. We can provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your lawn's specific needs. A healthy lawn is your best defense against common diseases. By recognizing early warning signs and acting promptly, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Remember, the best treatment is prevention, and the best time to start is now. Not sure about the state of your lawn or need help with treatment? Contact Fox Mowing & Gardening today. Our team of lawn care experts is ready to help you maintain a lush, disease-free lawn all year round.