How to Treat Brown Spots in Grass
- 1). Apply a benomyl, sulfur or chlorothalonil fungicide to brown patches or large spots that measure 2 to 4 feet in diameter. Caused by the fungal disease called summer patch or brown patch disease, such patches feature yellow edges with green grass inside. Follow label directions for appropriate rates, following application every five days until the grass recovers.
- 2). Aerate the soil under a brown lawn spot with a core aerator so moisture penetrates through and reaches the roots. Compacted soils are thirsty and resist moisture penetration, causing grass directly above to form a brown spot. Instead of punching holes in the soil, a core aerator pulls plugs out so moisture goes through.
- 3). Remove excessive thatch with a thatching rake so essential nutrients and water penetrate the soil below. Plant debris, grass clipping and accumulated leaves prevent moisture, sunlight and food from reaching the base of blades and soil, causing weak grass to form brown spots. When removed, essential elements easily reach lower ends of grass and the soil below, restoring lawn health and turning green again.
- 4). Water the brown spot that occurs in the lawn after a frequent fertilizer application to dilute its effect. When used in excess, the nitrogen in fertilizers causes grass blades to burn and turn brown. According to Lawncare Business, dousing the area with water from a hose washes away concentrated amounts. Always follow label directions for application rates.
- 5). Aerate the soil with a garden fork to loosen up any buildup of thatch caused by persistent foot traffic. Frequent foot traffic causes soil to compact and prevents water from reaching grass roots. Stick the fork into the soil directly over the brown spot to loosen thatch and soil.
- 6). Douse the brown spot caused by dog urine with a heavy spray of water from a hose. Dog urine is highly acidic in nature, causing brown spots to appear directly over the lawn grass. Watering the spot dilutes the nitrogen.
