Reduce brown patch risk by avoiding excess nitrogen and night watering

What to Do

Keep spring nitrogen rates moderate (under 0.5 lb N per 1,000 sq ft), avoid watering in the evening, and do not mow below the recommended height for your grass type. These three practices dramatically reduce brown patch risk.

Why It Works

Brown patch (Rhizoctonia solani) produces large circular dead patches up to 3 feet across and thrives in hot, humid conditions with excessive nitrogen. High nitrogen creates lush, succulent growth that is more susceptible to infection. Evening watering keeps blades wet overnight — the exact conditions the fungus needs. Low mowing stresses the plant and reduces its disease resistance.

Tips

• Brown patch appears as early as spring green-up in warm climates and peaks in summer.
• Tall fescue and perennial ryegrass are especially susceptible.
• If brown patch is active, avoid mowing through infected areas to prevent spreading spores on the mower blade.