lawn care Archives - East Coast Sprayers

Posted on January 8, 2024January 8, 2024 by East Coast Sprayers

Did you know that these colder months can bring about a threat to your lush, green lawn? Specifically, the dreaded brown patch fungus, a common problem East Coast Sprayers sees in Palm Beach County. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between cold weather, overwatering and the onset of this detrimental lawn disease.

Understanding Brown Patch Fungus

Welcome to the complex world of brown patch fungus, or as the scientists like to call it, Rhizoctonia. This pesky lawn disease has a nasty habit of quickly spreading across your turf, leaving large, eye-catching patches of faded and wilting grass in its wake. Quite the eyesore, wouldn’t you agree?

This tricky culprit doesn’t play by the rules, it thrives in a vast range of environments. However, just like we all have our favorite hangouts, this fungus loves nothing more than a nice cool and wet atmosphere. Now, it’s important to understand that this fungus doesn’t just wake up one day and decide to invade your lawn. It’s a gradual process, and identifying the signs early can make all the difference in protecting your lawn. But we’ll dive deeper into that in the next section.

For now, let’s just say that understanding your enemy is the first step towards victory. By knowing what brown patch fungus is and the conditions it loves, you’re already on your way to guarding your lawn against its invasion. Just remember – a well-cared-for lawn is your best defense against this unwelcome intruder.

Spotting the Symptoms of Brown Patch Fungus

Keep a vigilant eye on your lawn as early detection of brown patch fungus is crucial to nip this problem in the bud. This notorious fungus doesn’t hide in plain sight – it has its way of announcing its presence. To start with, it might seem like your lawn is just having a few bad hair days with small, circular areas of brown, wilted grass popping up here and there. However, if left unchecked, this sneaky intruder will swiftly expand its territory, causing a patchy, leopard-like pattern on your once vibrant lawn.

What sets this fungus apart is its distinctive ‘smoke ring’ – a tell-tale sign you should be on the lookout for. This is a dark, smoky ring that seems to outline the afflicted patches of grass.

Don’t ignore these signs, especially during the chilly, damp weather. That’s when this fungus tends to thrive the most. So, the moment you spot these symptoms on your lawn, it’s time to take action. Because in the game of lawn care, prevention is key, and the first step to prevention is knowing what to look for.

Overwatering: A Recipe for Disaster

Who doesn’t love a long, refreshing drink of water after a strenuous workout? Just like us, our lawns crave hydration. However, in the same way that chugging a gallon of water at once would be a bad idea for us, drenching our lawns can lead to a host of issues, not least of all the dreaded brown patch fungus.

Picture this: you’re generously watering your lawn in an effort to keep it lush and vibrant, but unbeknownst to you, you’re creating an ideal breeding ground for fungus. Overwatering tends to saturate the soil, denying it the much-needed aeration. As the soil gets waterlogged, the roots of your grass get deprived of oxygen, leaving your lawn gasping for breath.

But that’s not all. The constant dampness on your grass blades from overwatering serves as an open invitation to fungal spores, saying, “hey, come and grow on me!” This damp environment is an all-inclusive resort for the fungus, where it can flourish, multiply, and before you know it, dominate your lovely green turf.

So, while your intention might be to nourish your lawn with abundant water, it’s essential to remember that too much of anything can be harmful. Striking a balance is key. After all, the last thing you want is to be the unwitting accomplice in your lawn’s downfall. So next time you reach for that hose, remember, moderation is the key. As they say, “Water wisely, and your lawn will thank you for it.”

The Role of Cold Weather in Brown Patch Fungus

Picture this: the temperature dips, you pull out your winter wardrobe, and everything begins to slow down, including the metabolism of your lawn. As temperatures drop, the excess moisture in your lawn struggles to evaporate at the usual pace typical of a warm, sunny day in South Florida.

This increase in moisture isn’t just a chilly nuisance; it’s the perfect invitation for the brown patch fungus to set up camp. This moist environment is like a five-star hotel for the fungus, encouraging it to multiply, spread, and, before you know it, take over your beautiful green lawn.

In essence, the colder months equip this unwelcome guest with just the right tools to invade, thrive, and spread across your lawn. This is why it’s crucial to keep an eye on your turf and adjust your lawn care routine during these months. Remember, this sneaky fungus loves nothing more than a cold, wet home to grow in, and the winter weather often provides it with just that.

When in Doubt: Turn Off the Irrigation

Cold weather calls for a bit of a watering shake-up when it comes to your beloved lawn. If the weather’s chilly and there’s a decent amount of rainfall, don’t hesitate to pull back on the irrigation, or maybe even switch it off entirely. It might seem counterintuitive, but remember, grass can fare better with a little thirst than being completely drenched.

Irrigation is all about balance. You want to water your lawn, but you don’t want to create a water park for the brown patch fungus. What’s the solution? Deep, infrequent watering sessions. This allows the soil a breather, a chance to dry up before you water again. This simple shift can make all the difference in preventing the pesky fungus from making your lawn its home.

So, next time you’re unsure about whether or not to irrigate, remember this little piece of advice: less can often be more, especially when dealing with a damp-loving intruder like the brown patch fungus. It’s all about creating an environment that promotes the health of your lawn while denying the fungus the conditions it needs to thrive. Because let’s be honest, the only thing you want flourishing on your lawn is lush, green grass, right?

Seeking Professional Help for Brown Patch Fungus

Spotting brown patches on your lawn can certainly cause concern. But, no need to fret, East Coast Sprayers are here! Call upon the expertise of a seasoned lawn care provider. Our green-thumbed experts can accurately identify if you are dealing with the notorious brown patch fungus and craft a custom lawn fertilization treatment plan to return your lawn to its lush glory. Opting for professional intervention not only saves you the elbow grease, but it could also save your greens, both the grass and the cash! It’s a win-win situation. So, when in doubt, reach out to the pros. Because let’s face it, your lawn deserves the best defense against its fungal foes. Team up with the experts at East Coast Sprayers and keep your lawn lush, green, and fungus-free.

Posted on January 25, 2023July 13, 2023 by East Coast Sprayers

Grass is a living entity made up of millions of microorganisms that allow your lawn to thrive. Fungus spores actually exist in all lawns and can be beneficial, but when the conditions are right, hot & humid (good ole’ Florida), it can cause an excess of spores that can suffocate each grass blade or overcrowd your lawn. Lawn fungus is a common problem that can cause discoloration, wilting, and even death of grass in affected areas.

Common Types

There are many different types of lawn fungus, each with its own set of symptoms and preferred growing conditions. Some common types of lawn fungus include dollar spot, brown patch, and red thread.

Dollar Spot is the most identifiable as small circles of dead or dry grass. They often are even sunken in, and can be alone or in clusters. This fungus is the most common to thrive in hot, humid climates.

Brown patch is very similar, but normally appears in irregular patches that may or may not be circular. Brown Patch often forms as a circle of rough, dry brown grass with a narrow darker ring around it.

Red thread fungus gets its name because of the thread-like appearance it has between blades. It is pink in color, and differs from both dollar spot and brown patch in that it is a cool-season disease that often thrives in undernourished lawns. Red thread spreads by pustules “exploding” and spitting fungal material up to 8 feet. Because of this, it can be sporadic in where it appears.

How to Prevent

There are some great ways to make sure your lawn doesn’t ever have to come in contact with lawn fungus. Watering your grass earlier in the day will allow the water to be absorbed and not become stagnant. Overwatering allows fungus to move through the grass and spread. Making sure your grass is mowed at a proper height (no more than ⅓ of the grass blade) with sharp blades to have a precise cut also helps prevent lawn fungus from spreading. A dull blade can shred the grass blades leaving many openings for disease to enter. Fertilizing at the right times and with the right amounts can help prevent lawn fungus. When lawns have the right nutrients they need to grow, they are less susceptible to disease.

How to Treat

Applying fungicide can be tedious and can take more than one application to remedy the issue. If you apply the same fungicide many times, your lawn can build up a resistance to the active ingredients. Due to this resistance, fungus may appear in your lawn even if you put down a preventative treatment. Some natural remedies for lawn fungus are neem oil, baking soda, compost tea, and clove oil. While these options to treat may help, it is always important to make sure you have a proper lawn treatment that helps prevent lawn fungus to be proactive.

East Coast Sprayers is Here to Help

East Coast Sprayers can help homeowners and HOAs (Home Owner Associations) combat lawn fungus and keep their lawns healthy. We specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and maintenance of lawn fungus, as well as custom lawn care solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of your lawn.

We use advanced lawn care equipment and techniques to ensure that we are able to effectively treat and prevent lawn fungus, while also minimizing the impact on the environment. In addition, our team of experts are knowledgeable and experienced in providing professional advice and service.

Our service includes scheduled visits to evaluate the health of your lawn and apply the necessary treatments. We provide regular follow-ups to monitor the progress of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments. This ensures that your lawn receives the care it needs to stay healthy and lush throughout the year.

Overall, if you’re experiencing issues with lawn fungus and looking for a solution, East Coast Sprayers understands the proper treatment for each fungal type. Contact us to schedule a consultation and find out how they can help you maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn for your home or HOA community!

Posted on October 20, 2021 by East Coast Sprayers

Keeping freshly cut, lush green grass is the hallmark of a beautiful lawn. This seemingly easy task is endlessly complicated by factors ranging from your soil, grass, weather, and proximity to the ocean. If you’re debating lawn fertilization services in Jupiter, FL, you aren’t alone. Many homeowners choose East Coast Sprayers for perfectly green lawns.

Things to Know Before Fertilizing

Fertilizing is a practical step to take to ensure your grass has the nutrients it needs to grow. To fertilize correctly, it takes a planned approach rather than doing so when you have the time. Feeding your lawn with energy needs to be calculated and precise for superior results.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

The peak grow season for your grass
The pH levels of your soil
The type of grass you have
How much fertilizer you’ll need

Failing to account for one of those may result in harm to your lawn, opening up further problems for you. This is why many homeowners rely on our services as opposed to DIY solutions. While less expensive by default, choosing the right fertilizer got your unique needs will be endlessly difficult if not impossible.

How Often Should You Fertilize

While the bulk of the answer lies in the grass you have, it’s always a good idea to fertilize at least three times a year. However, those with turfgrass in Northern and Central Florida will see a shorter growing season than those in Delray. Therefore, the longer the growing season, the more you’ll need to fertilize.

Fertilizing in the spring, fall, end of winter, and summer are the four best times to fertilize. Partner with east coast sprayers today to never forget these highly important months.

Why Choose Professional Fertilization Services?

If you’re interested in having a lawn that the neighborhood is envious of, you’ll need professional care. Our skilled and experienced lawn fertilization team can service both residential and commercial clients, delivering superb results for both.

We take a very personalized approach to greening your yard. Why? No two plots of land are the same. Our team will:

Identify your grass type
Assess your soil thoroughly
Consider your location and its impact on your turf
Analyze your weather patterns

After pouring over any factor contributing to poor growth, we can formulate a tailored plan for your unique circumstances.

You may still be wondering why you need professional services. If you’re like the rest of us, you’re likely to have a hectic schedule with free time at a premium. In these cases, we encourage you to sit back, relax, and let our trained professionals handle the problem for you.

Other Services We Offer

While treating your soil and grass is one thing, perhaps the issues you’re having are caused by pests. If so, our multifaceted team can help with these concerns as well. No matter the cause of your less than green lawn, East Coast Sprayers has the knowledge, experience, and tools to resolve any problems you may have.

It’s Time to Receive Lawn Fertilization Services in Jupiter, FL

You see your lawn daily, so don’t settle for less than lush green. At East Coast Sprayers, we understand that brown, dead grass is an eyesore, so we’ve made it our mission to correct the problem one lawn at a time. Call us today!

Posted on September 27, 2021July 16, 2023 by East Coast Sprayers

Slugs are a significant problem in non-arid climates, as they thrive in hot and humid environments. Many people underestimate the damage that these slimy nuisances can cause. If a growing number of slugs raise concerns, contact East Coast Sprayers for lawn pest services in Palm Beach.

Why Slugs Are a Lawn Pest

You’ll most likely find them in areas covered in greenery. Bushes, shrubs, and flowers are all food sources for hungry slugs. No matter the plant they choose to eat, they can severely damage it in the process. If you don’t treat your slugs quickly, you may need lawn care services as well.

Distinguishing slug damage from other critters can prove to be a difficult assignment for those untrained. Here are a few common signs that your garden or landscaping is under the affliction of slugs or snails:

Large, ragged holes in leaves or flowers
Springtime damage
Slime trails in grass or mulch
Plants with only the stems remaining
Holes chewed into vegetables

When they aren’t consuming your vegetation, you may find slime trails across your tiles or carpeting. If this happens, you’re likely to ask how they came into your Palm Beach home and will they affect your health?

How and Why Slugs Enter Homes

Slugs are looking for the same things spiders, cockroaches, and other infestations look for food, water, and a break from the elements. Common household attractants include pet food and pantries.

Slugs can enter your household in a variety of ways, such as:

Entering through gaps, tiny holes, pipes, or vents
Squeezed through a crack in one of your doors or windows
You or a pet could trap them in

Professional Slug Removal Services

Before we take action, we will thoroughly inspect your property. We’ll begin where you’ve already seen them and then check potential hiding places. After seeing the scope of the problem, we’ll start to treat your infestation.

If slugs are hanging out in your garden or flowerbeds, we’ll spray for them. Our professional-grade sprays will quickly and effectively end your troublesome slug invasion. Along with slugs, we offer a solution for many lawn invaders.

For indoor slugs, the tactics are very different. Since slugs are nocturnal, you’ll only notice their presence from hardened slime trails in the morning after they’ve retreated. For this reason, you may not be able to find them unless you really look.

If it’s possible to plug their entry, that will help tremendously. After, the careful placement of traps in the seemingly high-traffic areas should take care of them. Once the slimy critter crawls inside, it has no chance of escape.

Are You Looking for Lawn Pest Services in Palm Beach?

Since slugs are a major problem, you must act quickly. We can put an end to the infestation before it swells into a larger problem. Contact us today for all you’re your lawn care and pest removal needs!

Posted on June 29, 2019July 16, 2023 by East Coast Sprayers

In Palm Beach County, we are used to the heat, daily rain, and bugs that come along with summertime. While we can’t control the weather, we can control the pests that are invading your landscape this time of year. Since we have been seeing an influx of grubs taking over our customer’s lawns recently, here’s some information on these destructive insects and how East Coast Sprayers can help maintain your beautiful lawn.

Identifying Grubs

Grubs are the little, white larvae of June beetles. They love to feed on organic matter in the soil, such as your grass roots. If you are not sure if you have a grub problem, here are some tell-tale signs:

Your lawn feels spongy when you walk on it
Foraging animals such as raccoons, armadillos, skunks and birds are digging up your lawn to feed on the grubs
Dead parts of your lawn can be pulled back like carpet from grubs eating the root systems

The key to controlling grubs is to kill them before they hatch. Insect control preventative treatments can be applied in the early summer in Palm Beach County to help eliminate the issue before it even starts.

Grubs Treatment

East Coast Sprayers have the knowledge you need to help keep your Palm Beach County property free of insects all summer long. Our team can provide a free evaluation of your infestation and outline a treatment plan for grubs in your landscape. Contact us today and let us help you get rid of what’s bugging you!

Posted on February 13, 2019 by East Coast Sprayers

As a Palm Beach County resident, your lawn is a vital part of your home’s curb appeal. Lush, green grass is every homeowner’s dream, but without professional insect control and lawn fertilization, this could be destroyed by a tiny little pest called a tropical sod webworm. East Coast Sprayers can help you identify this pest and control the infestation in your lawn.

What Are Tropical Sod Webworms?

Tropical sod webworms are found in Palm Beach year round and are most active from spring to fall. The tropical sod webworm is actually a larvae which uses your grass as a nest and feeding ground. While they prefer the delight of St. Augustine grass, the larvae have also been found to eat other grasses such as bermuda grass and zoysia grass. Tropical sod webworms are light green to gray-green, have dark spots on their body and can be up to 1 inch long.

How Do You Know You Have Tropical Sod Webworms?

If you notice damage to your lawn and want to determine if you have a tropical sod webworm infestation, here are a few tell-tale signs:

Ragged areas of grass and brown patches with heavy chewing damage
Silky web trail left throughout your grass which is highly visible with the morning dew
Tropical sod webworm moths fluttering above the grass

Treatment for Tropical Sod Webworms

If you think your lawn is suffering from the damaging effects of tropical sod webworms, East Coast Sprayers is here to help! We will thoroughly inspect your lawn and customize a treatment plan. Treatment can include regular pest control, lawn fertilization, and overall maintenance plans to correct and prevent future damage from tropical sod webworms destroying your Palm Beach lawn. Contact us today to receive your free quote and customized treatment plan!

Posted on January 12, 2019 by East Coast Sprayers

Is your lawn looking brown, patchy and dead? While you may think drought is destroying your grass, it could actually be chinch bugs. Chinch bugs are a common pest insect found throughout the United States. These bugs feed on the grass’s fluid and in return, injects a toxin that causes the grass to die. As they continue to reproduce and feed, those brown patches can quickly consume your entire lawn.

How Do Chinch Bugs Thrive?

Chinch bugs prefer sunlight and warmth; which makes Florida their ideal environment. They thrive in the sunniest parts of your lawn where it is hot and dry. South Florida grasses, such as St. Augustine and zoysia grass, are a favorite of these little bugs providing them with thick, lush thatch to feed and lay their eggs.

How Do You Identify a Chinch Bug?

If your lawn has dry brown spots, that should be your first indication that chinch bugs have possibly invaded. Unfortunately, these bugs are hard to see in the grass due to their small size. Adult chinch bugs grow to only 1/5 of an in long and are black bodied with white and black wings that overlap. If you want to identify them yourself, you may need to use a magnifying glass to see these tiny pests!

Chinch Bug Treatment

The best way to treat your lawn for chinch bugs is to contact your lawn care professional to do an inspection and provide a insect control treatment plan. They may recommend liquid or pelletized lawn chemicals to kill off the infestation, stop their breeding cycle, and drive them away from your yard. This type of treatment should always be performed by a professional. Over treatment can damage the lawn and under treatment could leave the bugs more resistant to the chemicals.

Contact a Professional

The first step to bringing your lawn back to life after a chinch bug infestation is to contact your lawn care professional. East Coast Sprayers will inspect your Palm Beach County lawn for free and provide you with an estimate to control your chinch bug outbreak!

Tag: lawn care