Florida’s hot, humid climate is paradise for grass—and unfortunately, also for the fungi and pests that attack it. Whether you’ve just installed fresh sod or are maintaining an established lawn, recognizing common diseases early can save your yard and your wallet.

  1. Brown Patch Fungus

  • Symptoms: Circular brown or yellow patches, especially in cooler months.
  • Cause: Overwatering, high nitrogen levels, or poor drainage.
  • Solution: Improve drainage, reduce watering, and apply a fungicide. Mow with clean blades to prevent spread.

  1. Gray Leaf Spot

  • Symptoms: Small gray or brown spots that expand into irregular patches.
  • Cause: Common in St. Augustine grass during humid summer months.
  • Solution: Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, improve airflow by mowing high, and apply fungicides if needed.

  1. Dollar Spot

  • Symptoms: Silver-dollar-sized bleached circles.
  • Cause: Low nitrogen and morning dew create the perfect conditions.
  • Solution: Fertilize appropriately and water early in the day to reduce leaf moisture.

  1. Rust

  • Symptoms: Orange dust on grass blades.
  • Cause: Common in shaded, moist areas with poor air circulation.
  • Solution: Increase sunlight exposure, improve airflow, and apply fungicide.

  1. Take-All Root Rot

  • Symptoms: Yellowing, thinning patches that worsen despite watering.
  • Cause: A soil-borne fungus active during hot, wet periods.
  • Solution: Reduce watering, raise mowing height, and consider fungicide treatments.

General Tips for Disease Prevention in Florida Sod:

  • Water smart: Deep and infrequent watering builds root resilience. Water early in the day to reduce leaf moisture.
  • Mow high: Tall grass shades the soil and resists disease. Keep mower blades sharp and clean.
  • Limit nitrogen: Too much fertilizer makes your lawn vulnerable.
  • Improve soil health: Aerate annually and topdress with compost to enhance microbial activity and improve drainage.

When in doubt, take a sample to your local extension office or lawn care pro. Early detection and the right remedy can mean the difference between replacing your sod or reviving it.