Why Is My Lawn Rusting?

Lawn Rust
Rust is a fungal lawn disease caused by several fungi on the grass blade. It is not a soil grown disease and only appears in the late summer/early fall in Pennsylvania. With the cooler temperatures at that time of the year, along with less rain and possible drought conditions, the grass blades do not grow as much as in the previous months. In simple terms, the grass lacking sun and water slows down its growth. Because of this, lawn rust takes over the lawn. The sun and water cannot reach the blade of the grass because of the rust and it continues to deteriorate.

In the primary stage of growth for lawn rust, the disease appears as small pale yellow/orange patches on the individual leaves or stems of the grass blade. The overall appearance of the lawn is no longer a healthy green – but more of a pale yellow/orange. As the disease progresses, the rust-colored spots grow, and the leaf surface breaks open producing a yellow powder. This powdery substance will adhere to the shoes of people and paws of animals who walk through the grass. The yellow/orange powdery dirt is easily dragged into the house and soils the floors, rugs, furniture, etc.

Treatment
Showcase Lawn Works will apply treatment of high nitrogen which will encourage the grass to grow. After one treatment, set your mower on the high setting to mow. Wait another five to six days and mow the yard again. After the treatment of nitrogen and two mowings, the grass should return to normal. Water your lawn to help it grow and it will avoid getting rust. The grass needs to grow to get rid of rust. In general, the lawn rust disease will not typically kill your grass, but it may weaken it to the point that your lawn may become more vulnerable to stress-related problems, such as drought and heat. Taking care of your grass will support the overall health of your lawn and plants and help your yard thrive.

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Lawn Rust