By Ruying Wang and Nancy Dykema
Chemical control is often the first solution people consider when they spot a lawn disease. In reality, lawn diseases can be managed or even prevented through simple cultural practices, sometimes with better long-term results than chemical treatments alone.
One important thing to know is that proper fungicide application is critical for controlling most turfgrass diseases, whether they affect the leaves or roots. This requires uniform coverage, consistent spray pressure, and the correct nozzle selection. Professional turf managers rely on advanced sprayer systems designed to deliver precise applications. These systems are not only expensive but also require technical knowledge and, in many regions, formal pesticide application training and certification. Fungicides must be applied at the right rate and interval to be safe and effective, which can be challenging for the average homeowner. In fact, improper application can do more harm than good, potentially damaging the grass if the wrong fungicide rate is applied.
Because of these limitations, most fungicide products marketed to homeowners are available in granular form. These tend to be easier to apply than liquids and don’t require as much specialized equipment. However, granular fungicides come with their own drawbacks. They must be watered in after application and even then they can often fail to provide uniform coverage. Granules that are accidentally applied to hard surfaces may increase the risk of off-target movement into stormwater systems.
Source : msu.edu