Lawn Disease

Fungus is always present in North East Florida, and becomes active when certain conditions are present. Disease such as Brown Patch, Gray Leaf Spot, and Dollar Spot are examples of fungus that affects St. Augustine grass. Free moisture is the number one factor in fungus development.

Conditions that favour disease development include:
• High humidity
• Heavy dew or fog
• Free moisture
• Evening irrigation
• Enclosed areas
• Areas with low air circulation

Good cultural practices such as early morning irrigation, mowing with a sharp blade, and bagging clippings when fungus is present are key in the prevention of disease conditions. Proper cultural practices are discussed in greater detail in the Cultural Practices section of this site.