If the grass blades in your lawn are turning reddish brown, your lawn might be struggling with a fungus called lawn rust. Lawn rust disease is caused by a fungus that creates orange spores. The spores stick to the grass blades, causing the rust-like discoloration. While lawn rust looks unsightly, it is unlikely to cause lasting damage to the lawn. Read on to learn more about lawn rust and tips for preventing it.
Lawn Rust Growth Habits
Lawn rust mainly affects cool-season grass types and develops in fall. You’ll likely see rust on shaded areas of the grass that get plenty of moisture. This is because the fungus that causes lawn rust thrives in moist conditions with temperatures between 70° and 80° F.
This disease can live in the thatch layer of the lawn and spreads easily through water droplets, wind, and foot traffic.
Preventing Lawn Rust
The key to preventing lawn rust and other diseases like it is to limit the amount of moisture in the lawn and to encourage good airflow. You can limit the moisture in the lawn by allowing it to dry out between watering sessions. You can improve airflow on the lawn by reducing shade, mowing frequently, and aerating yearly.
To keep your lawn healthy and prevent lawn rust from developing, follow these steps:
- Keep good airflow in the lawn through aeration.
- Mow weekly to keep the lawn between 3 and 4 inches tall.
- Fertilize regularly to promote growth.
- Trim overhanging tree branches to reduce the amount of shade on the grass.
Following these steps can help prevent fungal diseases like lawn rust, but sometimes diseases still develop on the lawn.
Treating Lawn Rust
If your lawn is already struggling with lawn rust, remember that it usually goes away on its own. You can shorten its life by keeping the lawn well-trimmed and aerated. You should also pick up and dispose of grass clippings after mowing.
We have lawn specialists on staff who can help diagnose lawn issues. Simply text your questions with a photo of the lawn into our office at 801-226-2261, and one of our specialists will respond.
Stewart’s lawn spraying service does not treat diseases like lawn rust, but it does include fertilizer, weed control, and grub control. We also offer aeration services in spring and fall. Call or text our office at 801-226-2261 for a free lawn service quote or to talk with one of our lawn specialists!