Question
Ken I have Rust in my lawn. Any suggestions, do I need a fungicide( compass ) . Or will it grow out on its own. Should I water? Will it spread when I cut?

Anthony

Answer
Rust is usually not serious but make sure you water infrequently and deeply when you do water as opposed to frequent and shallow applications (e.g. water once per week for 2 hours rather than 15 minutes daily). Water early in the morning, if you water manually, to allow lawn to dry during the day.

Mow the lawn tall, 2.5-3.5" per mowing and mow frequently. do not cut grass too low. Spreading of rust is possible with mowing so wash mower blades after each mowing.

Fertilize in early fall and late fall if you are located in northern states. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizer in early spring, and do not fertilize during hot summer months.

Rust usually develops in late summer to early fall when the weather is dry. Rust typically develops on lawns growing very slowly.

It usually develops during dry period, but after periods of heavy rain, rust can also develop due to depletion of fertilizer.

Rust will usually disappear when temperatures change and cooler weather of fall returns. An early fall fertilization (september) will usually cure it. Fungicides are not recommended.

I am not sure where you are located, but if located in northern states, fertilize with a regular lawn fertilizer in early september, early to mid november and then again in late spring (late may).

Mow lawn tall, and mow frequently (weekly). avoid mowing too close.

If you water manually, water infrequently but deeply.