Brown spot in lawn
Paul Asked
I have a brown spot in my lawn that I have noticed this winter.
I have Bermuda grass. It seems to be getting bigger. I know we had a mild and pretty wet winter. Can you let me know what it is and what to do to get rid of it?
Thanks,
Paul
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Paul: I apologize for the delayed response. I’m not sure how I missed this question. 🙁
Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season perennial grass. It grows best in fertile, well-drained soils and grown in full sun. It will not tolerate shade. Different types of grasses do well in different regions of Kentucky. Bermuda grass is grown as a turf grass inWestern Kentucky. In other parts of the state it is considered invasive and not recommended because of its rapidly creeping growth habit. In some cases it can be mixed with other perennial options such as ryegrass. Bermuda grass is susceptible brown patch and other fungal diseases. These fungal spores exist naturally in the soil and only become a problem when conditions are favorable and the grass is already stressed. It is best to have the disease positively identified before treatment options can be suggested.
The Christian County Cooperative Extension Service will be a great resource for you. Contact the horticulture/agriculture agent(s) for instructions on gathering samples of your grass so it can be sent off and the disease can be identified. They can also advise you in terms of having have your soil tested. The phone number is (270) 886-6328. The Christian County offices are located at 2850 Pembroke Road in Hopkinsville. I hope this is helpful.
Angie Oakley
Kentucky Living-Ask the Gardener
