Question
I live in the Knoxville Tennessee area, Zip 37934 and have a lawn of Kentucky 31 Tall fescue.  It has developed areas, some possible 16 sq. ft. that have turned a chartruese green color.  it is happening in other areas also to some extent.  Could it be to little or to much lime? Not enough nitrogen? To much fertilizer.  I use a standard, Scott's or Ace Hardware.
Have any ideas?
Thanks

Answer
Good evening Bill:

Coloring changes in the lawn can be caused by a number of reasons. Any of those you have mentioned could have an effect.
Chlorosis would be my guess. Turf areas may become pale green-yellow, and plant growth may be stunted. In most cases this chlorotic condition is due to lack of nitrogen and/or an iron deficiency. An application of iron sulfate or chelated iron on turf showing iron deficiency will result in a greening of the turf within a few hours after application. You can purchase a balanced fertilizer with iron. Make sure that the bag indicates that it is a slow releaser fertilizer and water it in after application. Do this in late September. In late November or early December apply a Winterizer fertilizer.

Testing the soil is the only way to determine the nutrients your soil may be lacking and the amounts required for your lawn. A soil test will also indicated the soil pH (acidity or alkalinity) that may need to be adjusted. Soil testing information and services are available through private testing companies or your County Extension office. When you send your soil sample in to be tested, request that the testing service provide you with fertilizer and other amendment recommendations for your lawn.

To take a soil sample for testing use a spade, trowel or bulb planter to remove a plug of soil three to six inches deep. Obtain similar cores from other random locations in the area of your lawn including the good and the bad areas. Mix the soil thoroughly in a clean pail. Remove about a half pint of the well mixed soil and let it dry at room temperature. Remove debris such as leaves, vegetation, sticks and large stones. Fill the soil test container to the amount required. Either mail or deliver to the soil test facility. The soil should be tested once every three to five years as part of preventive lawn maintenance.

The administrative office of your Cooperative Extension is at: 2621 Morgan Circle
121 Morgan Hall Knoxville, Tennessee 37996 Phone: 865-974-7114. They should be able to get you information in order for you to get your soil tested.

I hope I have helped. Have a good lawn
Floyd McMahon