Tall Fescue Disease Management
BROWN PATCH (Rhizoctonia solani) is the number one threat to fescue lawns. It strikes when nighttime temps stay above 68°F with high humidity — typically June through August. Symptoms: circular patches 6 inches to several feet wide with tan/brown grass and a dark gray smoke ring at the active edge in early morning dew. Prevention is key: reduce nitrogen in summer, water in the morning only, improve air circulation, and mow at proper height. Apply preventive fungicide (azoxystrobin or propiconazole) in late spring when nighttime temps consistently reach 65°F. Dollar spot and leaf spot are low risk on fescue but can appear in stressed turf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does brown patch look like in fescue?
Circular brown patches 6 inches to several feet across, often with a darker smoke ring at the edge in early morning dew. Individual blades show brown lesions with tan centers.
How do I prevent brown patch?
Stop nitrogen in summer. Water in the morning only. Mow at 3.5-4 inches. Apply preventive fungicide (azoxystrobin or propiconazole) in late spring when nighttime temps first exceed 68°F.
Will my fescue recover from brown patch?
Usually, yes. Brown patch primarily attacks leaf blades, not crowns. When cooler weather returns in fall, the grass regrows from the crown. Overseed any thin areas in September.
Does fescue get other diseases?
Dollar spot and leaf spot are possible but much less common than brown patch. Fescue is generally disease-resistant compared to Kentucky bluegrass, making it the easier cool-season option.
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