Fungal or drought? - Ask Extension
I have brown patches in my front lawn. We water and fertilize all of it, but the area exposed to the sun is turning quite brown. What could be causing...
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Fungal or drought? #909305
Asked July 10, 2025, 4:41 PM EDT
I have brown patches in my front lawn. We water and fertilize all of it, but the area exposed to the sun is turning quite brown. What could be causing this? The grass under the trees is doing well.
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Good Morning,
Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to diagnose turf diseases in this forum. I recommend contacting MSU Plant Diagnostic lab. Please start by emailing your question and pictures to them. Include info such as when and how much you water, when you lasted fertilized, what other chemicals were applied and when. If they need a sod sample they will contact you. https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/
Using a hand lens looking at your grass blades, and comparing to the diseases here, you may be able to spot something.
Turf Diseases - Turf
As you can see, the possibilities are many, and a close examination of grass blades under magnification is usually required.
I hope this helps. Thanks for using our service.
The Plant Doctor: Large (Brown) Patch of Warm-Season Turfgrasses | Mississippi State University Extension Service
Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to diagnose turf diseases in this forum. I recommend contacting MSU Plant Diagnostic lab. Please start by emailing your question and pictures to them. Include info such as when and how much you water, when you lasted fertilized, what other chemicals were applied and when. If they need a sod sample they will contact you. https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/
Using a hand lens looking at your grass blades, and comparing to the diseases here, you may be able to spot something.
Turf Diseases - Turf
As you can see, the possibilities are many, and a close examination of grass blades under magnification is usually required.
I hope this helps. Thanks for using our service.
The Plant Doctor: Large (Brown) Patch of Warm-Season Turfgrasses | Mississippi State University Extension Service
