Homeowners who wish to plant new lawn grass often place sod on their lawns. Sod is often chosen because it provides an instant lawn. However, new sod must have time to root to the soil and it can turn brown in certain areas. Browning of new sod has many causes such as improper watering and insect infestations. Does this Spark an idea?
Watering
New sod must have proper amounts of water to establish a root system. Once a deep root system is established, your new lawn will be less likely to sustain damage from insects and environmental stress. New sod can turn brown if it does not receive enough water. After laying new sod, you must water it each day for 30 minutes for a period of 30 days. This is especially important in areas where it is hot and humid. Once your new lawn is established, you should water it on an as-needed basis. Slight grass wilting or the inability to recover from footprints are signs your lawn needs water.
White Grubs
Insect infestations are a cause of new sod browning. White grubs are one of the most common and destructive lawn grass pests. These pests are white and C-shaped and are the larval stage of beetles. White grubs damage new sod and established lawns by feeding on grass roots. Root damage causes the grass to turn brown. Lifting the sod in damaged areas will allow you to see the white grubs in the root zone. If you see white grubs, you can treat your lawn with insecticides to eliminate them. Only treat the damaged areas for grubs.
Fungal Diseases
New sod is susceptible to fungal diseases. While regular watering is important to the health of your lawn, providing your lawn with an excessive amount of water can allow fungal diseases to take hold. One fungal disease that causes browning of new sod, as well as established lawns, is Rhizoctonia blight, also known as brown patch. This disease causes circular brown patches on grass, which can range from 1 to 3 feet in diameter. Grass may appear watersoaked and develop smoke rings when the grass is wet. Rhizoctonia blight is most common in hot, humid weather. Fungicides are often necessary to control severe symptoms.
Herbicide Damage
Herbicides and insecticides are often used to keep landscaping plants free from damaging pests and weeds. However, new sod can sustain damage if these herbicides come into contact with grass. Be careful to avoid contact with new sod when spraying your ornamental plants for insects and weeds, as this may cause brown patches to develop. Avoid applying any herbicides to your plants if the temperatures are above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Contact your extension office for advice on avoid damage to new sod when using these products.
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