Pink Fungus in Lawns: Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Lawns are a beautiful and functional part of homes and public parks. They provide a lush green space for playing, relaxing and socializing. However, they can face many problems such as pests, weeds, drought, and diseases. One of the common lawn diseases is pink fungus. This article will explain what causes pink fungus, how to treat it, and most importantly, how to prevent it from spreading.

What is Pink Fungus?

Pink fungus or "pink patch" is a fungal disease that affects turfgrass species such as Bermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Centipede grass. It is characterized by circular pink, red, or orange spots on the blades of grass. The spots can grow up to 6 inches in diameter, and the grass may turn brown or die if left untreated.

Causes of Pink Fungus

The main cause of pink fungus is a group of fungi called Rhizoctonia solani. These fungi thrive in warm and humid climates, particularly during summer and fall. They also prefer poorly drained soils, compacted soil, and overwatering of lawns. Other factors that can contribute to pink fungus include:

• Nutrient deficiency
• Excessive thatch buildup
• Improper mowing practices
• Overuse of fertilizers or pesticides
• Stress from high foot traffic or dog urine

Treatment of Pink Fungus

If you suspect that your lawn has pink fungus, the first step is to confirm the diagnosis by taking a sample of the affected grass to a local nursery or extension service. Once confirmed, you can apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease. Look for fungicides that contain active ingredients such as azoxystrobin, propiconazole, or flutolanil. Follow the label instructions carefully and wear protective gear when applying fungicides.

Other measures to treat pink fungus include:

• Aerating the soil to improve drainage and reduce compaction
• Dethatching the lawn to remove excessive dead grass and debris
• Adjusting the irrigation schedule to avoid overwatering
• Mowing the grass at the proper height (3-4 inches) and frequency (1-2 times per week)
• Applying balanced fertilizers with slow-release nitrogen
• Reducing foot traffic or restricting pet access to the lawn

Note that fungicides are not always effective, and they can harm beneficial organisms such as earthworms, bees, and birds. Therefore, it is important to use them as a last resort and only when necessary.

Prevention of Pink Fungus

The best way to deal with pink fungus is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to prevent pink fungus:

• Maintain good lawn care practices such as proper watering, mowing, and fertilizing
• Avoid overwatering, especially during rainy seasons or when the soil is already moist
• Improve soil drainage by aerating, dethatching, and adding organic matter such as compost or mulch
• Reduce soil compaction by avoiding heavy machinery or foot traffic on the lawn
• Select grass varieties that are resistant to pink fungus, such as fescue and ryegrass
• Practice crop rotation by alternating grass species every few years

By following these preventive measures, you can save time, money, and effort in dealing with pink fungus and other lawn diseases.

Pink Fungus on Lawn

Pink fungus can be a nuisance and a threat to the health and appearance of lawns. However, with the right knowledge and practices, you can prevent and manage this disease effectively. Remember to maintain good lawn care practices, diagnose the problem correctly, choose the appropriate treatment, and follow the label instructions carefully. By doing so, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy, and vibrant lawn all year round.

Lawn Diseases, Fungus Control, Garden Health, Soil Quality