How to Identify & Treat Root Rot Lawn Disease
Excess moisture is one of the most common threats to lawns in Texas, especially after extended periods of rainfall, overwatering or poor drainage. One of the most damaging issues is root rot, and professional lawn disease treatment is often necessary to stop it from spreading. Caused by fungal organisms that thrive in consistently wet soil, root rot can quickly weaken even the healthiest-looking turf if left untreated.
What Is Root Rot Lawn Disease?
Root rot occurs when fungal organisms such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia or Phytophthora take hold in overly saturated soil. These fungi invade and break down the roots, causing them to soften, discolor, and lose their ability to take in water and nutrients.
Although the grass blades may appear wilted or slightly discolored at first, the most significant damage happens underground. Areas affected by root rot often stay wet longer than the rest of the yard, and the disease thrives in environments such as compacted soil, shaded spots, and low areas where water tends to pool.
How to Spot Root Rot in Your Texas Lawn
Root rot can be difficult to spot at first, but there are a few key signs that can help you identify it before the damage spreads. One of the earliest indicators is grass that begins to yellow or fade, even when it’s receiving plenty of water. As the disease progresses, patches may turn brown, thin out, or wilt more quickly than the rest of the lawn.
When you gently tug on the affected grass, it may lift from the soil with little resistance because the roots beneath it have become soft, brown or mushy instead of firm and white. You may also notice areas of your yard that stay soggy long after other spots have dried. All this can create the perfect environment for the fungus responsible for root rot, even year-round.
What to Do if Root Rot Lawn Disease Is a Concern
When you notice areas of your lawn that aren’t bouncing back after watering—or seem to stay overly damp compared to the rest of the yard—it’s a good idea to investigate further. Root rot doesn’t go away on its own, and continuing to water the same way will only make the situation worse.
Reducing your watering schedule, checking your irrigation system and correcting drainage problems can help slow things down, but professional treatment from a reliable lawn care service is often needed to keep the disease from spreading.
How to Treat Root Rot Lawn Disease
The first step is improving the conditions that allowed root rot to develop in the first place. Core aeration is extremely helpful because it loosens compacted soil and allows excess moisture to drain more easily. Lawn care professionals can also apply fungicides specifically designed to stop the fungus responsible for root rot.
These treatments usually require multiple applications and work best when combined with better soil drainage and proper watering habits. After the disease is under control, adding fertilizer or soil conditioners and repairing damaged patches can help your lawn recover more quickly.
Contact the Professionals for Root Rot Lawn Disease Treatment
If you suspect root rot in your lawn, acting quickly can make a big difference. We provide lawn disease control services that target root rot and other common lawn issues in North Texas. Call Green Top Lawn Care at (817) 684-4044, or request a free lawn care quote today.
