Turf Fungus Trouble? Don’t Let Brown Patch Ruin Your Lawn

The Silent Threat Beneath the Blades

You water regularly, mow on schedule, and do all the right things—so why are ugly brown circles showing up across your lawn? Welcome to the frustrating world of turf fungus, and in particular, brown patch.

In Central Texas, brown patch can sneak up fast and turn a lush lawn into a diseased disaster. The good news? It’s preventable, treatable, and totally beatable with the right approach.

What Is Brown Patch?

Brown patch is caused by Rhizoctonia solani, a persistent fungal pathogen that thrives in:

• Warm, humid weather (especially 70-90°F with high overnight moisture)
• Overwatered or poorly drained lawns
• Stressed or nutrient deficient grass
• Thick thatch layer or compacted soil

Once established, it spreads quickly and can leave behind widespread damage if ignored.

Signs You’re Dealing with Brown Patch

Not every brown spot is a brown patch. Here’s how to tell:

• Circular patches 1–3 feet wide
• Dark, smoke-like rings around affected areas
• Water-soaked or rotting grass blades
• Easily pullable grass in infected zones
• Yellowing turf that quickly browns out

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to act fast.

Brown Patch Prevention Game Plan

1. Water Wisely

• Water early in the morning (before 9 AM)
• Avoid watering in the evening—moisture lingers overnight
• Use deep, infrequent irrigation, not daily light watering

2. Improve Airflow

• Mow regularly to prevent overgrowth
• Trim surrounding trees and shrubs to increase sunlight and airflow

3. Keep Soil Healthy

• Aerate compacted soil to improve drainage
• Reduce thatch buildup (½ inch max)
• Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer—avoid heavy nitrogen applications during hot weather

When Brown Patch Takes Hold: Treatment Tips

Already have a problem? Here’s your action plan:

• Apply fungicide as soon as you spot symptoms
• Choose a product labeled for Rhizoctonia (Brown Patch) control
• Avoid mowing wet grass—this spreads spores
• Clean mower blades between cuts
• Combine treatment with soil improvement and proper irrigation

Our Championship Turf Strategy

At Loopers, our all-inclusive turf program includes targeted fungus control to stop brown patch in its tracks. We assess, diagnose, and treat the underlying issues—bringing your lawn back to life, one blade at a time.

Schedule a lawn assessment today, and we’ll build a turf disease plan tailored to your soil, grass type, and climate conditions.

 

Disclaimer: Expert turf care advice from certified professionals at Loopers Lawn Care.