Lawn Problems and Solutions

Weeds aren’t the only thing standing between you and the lush lawn of your dreams. Once your turf is established, you’ve got to watch for pests, fungal diseases—and even Fido. Got a mysterious brown spot or dry patch plaguing your grass?

Don’t worry about it. You can make your yard beautiful again.

ere’s an overview of natural pest control techniques:

For diseases: Many diseases thrive in thatch; make your lawn less attractive to them by removing the thatch layer.

Many fungi (the cause of most lawn diseases) get a foothold when a lawn is either over-or under-watered. Maintain steady, adequate moisture to keep diseases at bay.

For insects: Again, keep thatch under control.

Pick bugs off your lawn by hand. Obviously, this will work only with a small infestation of large bugs, but it’s often worth trying before you reach for a big insecticidal gun.

Natural pest repellents such as garlic and pepper sprays will repel many insects. Combine the repellent with water in the blender and then strain out the fiber. Or use insecticidal soap, effective against many problematic insects.