Fungus in the grass

Secret Squirrel · October 2014

I have fungus in the grass that looks like scramble egg. What is it and is it harmful to the grass

BobTheGardener · October 2014

It'll be a slime mould Mark:

https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=246

Fascinating things - lots of info. via google!

Donna Holmes · October 2014

Causes of Lawn Fungal Disease

Your lawn is naturally full of fungi and spores, some harmless and some problematic, but the right (or wrong) conditions can cause grass fungus to erupt into a harmful disease. The most common causes of a lawn fungal disease are:

    Drought
    Improper mowing (especially mowing too low)
    Compacted soil
    Overwatering
    Too much fertilizer (or using the wrong kind)
    Wrong grass type for your yard
    Weather conditions (particularly temperature and humidity)

How To Prevent and Treat Lawn Fungal Diseases

A simple change in your lawn care practices may be enough to prevent or eradicate lawn fungal disease. At other times nature may deliver a soggy spring or summer heat wave that just can’t be helped. Stressed or unhealthy lawns are much more likely to develop disease; so the better you care for your lawn, the better the grass will be able to handle the natural conditions in your area.

Follow these steps to help take control of fungal diseases in your lawn:

    Soil Test: Conducting a soil test can not only identify nutrient deficiencies that lead to stressed lawns and disease but sometimes can be used to diagnose the disease itself. Check with your local cooperative extension office for more information.
    Aerate: Loosen soil by aerating your lawn every year or two.
    Top-Dress: Apply and rake in a layer of rich, organic top-dressing to improve the soil, increase drainage, and help combat disease.
    Dethatch: Remove thick buildups of thatch in your lawn to allow the soil to breathe.
    Sprinkler watering lawn.

    Improper watering can lead to lawn fungus.
    Grass Type: Rather than fighting nature to have an exotic lawn, choose a grass type that’s suited for your climate, soil, and light conditions. Well chosen lawns are stronger and able to fight off the normal fungal spores native to the area.
    Go Organic: Synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and other lawn chemicals can upset your lawn’s ecosystem – allowing disease organisms to grow unchecked. Using organic materials helps keep your lawn in balance.
    Fertilizing: Both over and under fertilizing can promote some fungal diseases. Choose organic, slow-release fertilizers for your lawn, and apply them exactly as instructed. Avoid excess nitrogen, which creates a fast green lawn with very poor defenses.
    Watering: Water early in the morning, to allow the grass blades to dry during the day. Give your lawn one inch of water per week, and use a rain gauge to keep track. Water deeply, but less frequently, to encourage stronger roots and to allow the water to absorb properly.
    Mowing: Follow good mowing practices, including keeping the mower blades sharp and mowing your lawn to the correct height. Scalped lawns are much more vulnerable to fungal disease. If your lawn has diseased patches, be sure to wash and disinfect the underside of your mower after each use.
    F-Stop Antifungal lawn treatment

    Antifungal grass treatment for lawn.
    Air Circulation: Many lawn fungi develop under moist, still conditions. Thin out trees and shrubs to allow air to circulate all over your lawn, and plant shade-tolerant grasses under trees.
    Snow: Avoid walking on or compacting snow in your yard during the winter, since heavy snow layers can breed snow molds that emerge in spring.
    Go Natural: If certain areas of your lawn are prone to fungal disease

BobTheGardener · October 2014

I forgot to mention, slime moulds are completely harmless to your lawn and it will disappear as rapidly as it came. It is NOT a disease of any kind and may even be beneficial as they consume bacteria and fungal spores.