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Common Issues With St. Augustine Grass

St. Augustine grass is a popular warm-season grass known for its lush, green appearance and shade tolerance. However, like all grasses, it can be susceptible to a variety of issues that can affect its health and appearance. Understanding these common problems and how to prevent and treat them is essential for maintaining a beautiful lawn.

Scan through this high-level overview of issues, prevention, and treatment. Check out our linked resources on each issue for in-depth information to learn more!

St. Augustine grass

Take-All Root Rot (TARR)

Take-All Root Rot (TARR) is a fungal disease caused by Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis. It primarily affects the root system of St. Augustine grass, leading to thinning, yellowing, and eventual death of the grass if left untreated. The disease is often triggered by mild, wet conditions, and it can be challenging to manage once established.

Signs and Symptoms: Look for yellowing and thinning patches of grass, especially in shaded areas. The grass may pull up easily from the soil due to the damaged root system.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Maintain proper lawn care practices, including adequate fertilization and mowing height.
  • Improve soil drainage and reduce thatch buildup to prevent the spread of TARR.
  • Fungicides can be applied, but they are most effective when used preventatively.

Brown Patch

Brown Patch is a common fungal disease that thrives in warm, humid conditions, making it a frequent problem in North Texas lawns. This disease primarily affects the leaf blades, causing circular brown patches that can quickly spread.

Signs and Symptoms: Look for circular brown patches that may have a yellow halo around the edges. The affected grass may appear water-soaked and wilted before turning brown.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Water your lawn early in the morning to allow it to dry during the day.
  • Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nitrogen can promote fungal growth.
  • Apply fungicides as a preventative measure during periods of high humidity.

Grey Leaf Spot

Grey Leaf Spot is another fungal disease that affects St. Augustine grass, especially during warm, wet weather. This disease can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly.

Signs and Symptoms: The disease begins with small, water-soaked spots on the leaves that develop into gray or brown lesions with distinct borders. Severe cases can lead to leaf blight and thinning of the turf.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Proper lawn maintenance, including mowing and watering, can help prevent the disease.
  • Use fungicides labeled for grey leaf spot if the disease becomes severe.
  • Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can exacerbate the problem.

Grub Worms

Grub worms are the larvae of various beetles, including June beetles and Japanese beetles. These pests feed on the roots of St. Augustine grass, leading to significant damage if left unchecked.

Signs and Symptoms: Patches of grass that are wilting, thinning, or can be easily pulled up may indicate a grub infestation. You may also see adult beetles flying around your lawn.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Apply grub control products in late summer or early fall when grubs are most active.
  • Encourage natural predators, such as birds, to help keep the grub population in check.
  • Maintain a healthy lawn through proper watering and fertilization to minimize grub damage.

Chinch Bugs

Chinch Bugs are tiny insects that feed on the sap of St. Augustine grass, leading to yellowing and browning of the turf. These pests are most active during the hot, dry months of summer.

Signs and Symptoms: Look for yellow patches of grass that gradually turn brown. Chinch bugs often cause damage in sunny areas of the lawn.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Regularly water your lawn to prevent drought stress, which can make it more susceptible to chinchbug damage.
  • Apply insecticides specifically labeled for chinchbugs if an infestation is detected.

Fall Armyworms

Fall Armyworms are the larvae of moths and are known for their appetite for St. Augustine grass and other warm-season grasses. These pests can cause rapid and severe damage to your lawn.

Signs and Symptoms: Large numbers of caterpillars feed on the grass, leading to chewed or skeletonized leaves. You may also notice birds flocking to your lawn to feed on the armyworms.

Prevention and Treatment:

  • Monitor your lawn for early signs of armyworm activity, especially during the late summer and early fall.
  • Apply insecticides or natural treatments to control the infestation.

Maintaining a Healthy St. Augustine Lawn

Implementing proper lawn care practices, such as regular mowing, appropriate watering, and timely application of fertilizers and pesticides, will go a long way in maintaining a lush, green lawn. If you need professional assistance with any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact Southern Botanical. Our expert team can provide tailored solutions to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant all year round.