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 devastating Floratam St. Augustine grass throughout Florida. Symptoms can include yellowing, browning, and eventual death of the turf. Unfortunately, there is no cure, and affected areas may need to be replaced with a resistant variety like CitraBlue St. Augustine.
We have been addressing the issue in multiple ways, including spraying existing lawns before complete removal. Then, we add a high-quality topsoil base to form a protective layer for the new sod and roots to adhere to. The St. Augustine CitraBlue is currently the top option for replacing the disease-prone Floratam strain. Below are some pictures from recent projects where Sunshine Sod has replaced entire communities through tear-out removal with sod cutters, raking out the existing layer of soil, adding premium topsoil, and laying St. Augustine CitraBlue to give our clients a fresh start with the best sod available to fight the plague infecting Florida lawns throughout Ft. Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, and Sarasota.
Why Is CitraBlue the Best Replacement for Floratam?
With the rapid spread of LVN and SCMV, homeowners and property managers need a resilient alternative to keep their lawns healthy. CitraBlue St. Augustine is one of the most recommended replacements because:
- It has a higher resistance to Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN)
- It features better drought tolerance than Floratam
- The deep blue-green color enhances curb appeal
- It requires less frequent mowing, making maintenance easier
Sunshine Sod’s Process for LVN-Resistant Sod Installation
We follow a thorough sod replacement process to ensure long-lasting results:
- Inspection & Diagnosis – We assess the lawn for LVN symptoms and confirm if Floratam sod is infected.
- Treatment & Removal – Spraying the existing lawn and carefully removing diseased sod with sod cutters.
- Topsoil Preparation – Adding a high-quality topsoil base to promote root health and prevent further issues.
- CitraBlue Sod Installation – Laying fresh, disease-resistant sod that thrives in Florida’s conditions.
- Aftercare Guidance – Providing tips on watering, fertilization, and maintenance for a healthy lawn.
Protect Your Florida Lawn Today!
If you’ve noticed signs of Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN) in your Floratam St. Augustine lawn, don’t wait until the damage spreads. Sunshine Sod is your trusted expert for sod replacement in Southwest Florida, serving Tampa, Naples, Port Charlotte, and Sarasota.
Call us today to discuss your options and schedule a consultation! Visit our sod installation page for more details on how we can help restore your lawn with the best sod available.
