Centipede Disease Guide — Large Patch & More
Large Patch (Rhizoctonia solani): The #1 centipede disease. Circular patches of yellowing/thinning grass, 3-25 feet in diameter. Most active in spring (60-75°F) and fall when soil is wet. The sheath at the base of affected blades easily pulls away and is dark and rotted. Prevention: (1) Don't over-fertilize — excess nitrogen promotes large patch, (2) Don't over-water — especially in fall, (3) Preventative fungicide (azoxystrobin) in spring and fall when nighttime temps reach 60°F. Dollar Spot: small bleached circles 2-6 inches wide. Less common in centipede than Bermuda. Treat with proper fertilization and fungicide if severe. Fairy Rings: dark green circles or arcs caused by soil fungi. Aerate and water through them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is large patch disease?
Large patch (Rhizoctonia solani) creates expanding circular brown patches in centipede, often appearing in spring and fall when temperatures are 60-75 degrees F with high humidity. It attacks the stolons at the soil line.
How do I treat large patch in centipede?
Apply a fungicide containing azoxystrobin or propiconazole to affected areas and a buffer zone around them. Reduce watering frequency and avoid nitrogen fertilizer until the disease is controlled.
How do I prevent large patch?
Water in the morning only, avoid excessive nitrogen, maintain proper mowing height, and do not over-water. Preventive fungicide applications in early fall and early spring protect high-risk lawns.
Will centipede recover from large patch?
Centipede can recover from large patch, but it is slow due to centipede's slow growth rate. Severely damaged areas may need plugging or re-sodding to speed recovery.
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