Large Patch Disease
Large Patch is a turfgrass disease that affects all warm-season grasses, including Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Centipedegrass, and St. Augustine grass.
Lawns are most susceptible to large patch infection during the transition into and out of dormancy. This means the disease typically appears in the fall and spring, showing up as circular areas with orange borders, ranging in size from 6 inches to 20 feet in diameter.
If you experienced damage in the fall, be aware that it may return in the same areas the following spring. It can also appear intermittently in either season. Spring flare-ups that are recurring from the fall may look like sunken patches that are very slow to green up.
Treatment and Prevention
Fungicides are usually required to stop the progression of large patch and work best when applied preventatively.
The ideal treatment program includes:
One application in October
A second in November
A third in the spring
This series of three applications usually prevents major damage.
If you wait until symptoms appear before scheduling a treatment, recovery in damaged areas will likely take longer.
Cultural Practices That Help
To reduce the risk of large patch disease:
Maintain mowing height above 1 inch
Avoid overwatering
Ensure proper drainage throughout the lawn
Core aerate and dethatch to reduce thatch buildup, which is where the fungus thrives most prominently
If you suspect large patch or have questions about your warm-season turf, reach out to your King GREEN representative for guidance and treatment options.
About the Author
For over three decades, King Green has been dedicated to revolutionizing lawn care. Our journey began with a vision to create greener, healthier lawns. Beautifully maintained grass in Mcdonough, GA Over the years, we have honed our expertise, leading to countless success stories of transforming ordinary lawns into vibrant landscapes. Our commitment to innovation and quality has been the driving force behind our history of excellence in lawn care service.