Symptoms

Necrotic Ring Spot is a devastating soil bound disease that is most noticeable and damaging during the prolonged hot, dry conditions of summer.

Necrotic Ring Spot Example

Mary Ann Hansen, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, www.forestryimages.org

Because it prefers hot dry conditions, Necrotic Ring Spot often occurs first near sidewalks, driveways and on areas with direct sunlight. The disease usually appears as small patches of dead grass 6” to 1’ in diameter. Older patches may have healthy green grass growing in the center of the affected area resulting in a frog eye appearance.

What Will Happen To My Lawn?

The patches will continue to spread throughout the entire lawn destroying whole areas if left untreated requiring multiple treatments of fungicide to get the disease under control. Combating Necrotic Ring Spot can be a timely and unpleasant weekend activity.

What Can I Do?

Keep your lawn cut at the highest setting possible, at least 3”, to help with turf survival. Also, make sure to keep your lawn properly watered. Do not let your lawn dry out! Sometimes a fungicide is necessary to achieve complete control. Some local hardware stores carry fungicides that can treat Necrotic Ring Spot. Be sure to read the label and apply according to the directions. Depending on the severity of the disease, more than one fungicide application may be required.

How Can Natural Way Help?

We have trained, certified professionals who are used to dealing with Necrotic Ring Spot and other problems. Natural Way offers a specially timed three step HHI program that provides the turf with a natural alternative to fungicides, keeping Necrotic Ring Spot in check all season long.

Necrotic Ring Spot Killing Grass

Howard F. Schwartz, Colorado State University