Combatting Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN) in Florida Lawns
At Sunshine Sod, many clients have been searching for solutions when it comes to infected and dying lawns. One of the top reasons leading to this situation is Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN), caused by the Sugarcane Mosaic Virus (SCMV). This virus has been damaging Floratam St. Augustine grass throughout Florida. Symptoms can include yellowing, browning, and eventual death of the turf. The symptoms can overlap with other lawn problems, so the lawn should be assessed before replacement work is planned.
The existing lawn may require treatment and complete removal. We then add a high-quality topsoil base to form a suitable layer for the new sod and roots to establish. CitraBlue St. Augustine is a preferred replacement option because it has higher resistance to LVN than Floratam. Sunshine Sod has used this process for individual properties and communities in Florida.
Why Is CitraBlue the Best Replacement for Floratam?
With the spread of LVN and SCMV, homeowners and property managers need a resilient alternative for lawn replacement. CitraBlue St. Augustine offers:
- Higher resistance to Lethal Viral Necrosis than Floratam
- Improved drought tolerance
- A deep blue-green color
- Less frequent mowing than some traditional St. Augustine cultivars
Sunshine Sod’s Process for LVN-Resistant Sod Installation
- Inspection and diagnosis — assess the lawn for LVN symptoms and determine whether Floratam sod may be infected.
- Treatment and removal — spray the existing lawn where appropriate and carefully remove diseased sod with sod cutters.
- Topsoil preparation — add a high-quality topsoil base to support root health and establishment.
- CitraBlue sod installation — lay fresh CitraBlue St. Augustine over the prepared soil base.
- Aftercare guidance — provide watering, fertilization, and maintenance recommendations for the new lawn.
Protect Your Florida Lawn
If you have noticed unexplained yellowing, browning, or widespread turf decline in a Floratam St. Augustine lawn, contact Sunshine Sod to discuss the property and possible next steps. We can review the location, visible symptoms, replacement scope, topsoil preparation, and CitraBlue installation options.
Request a consultation or review our Florida sod installation service.
LVN Lawn Replacement Project Photos
Affected turf, removal and preparation work, replacement sod, and completed Florida lawn projects.
Request an LVN Lawn Consultation
Share your property location, lawn symptoms, approximate size, and photos so Sunshine Sod can help assess the next step.
