How to Control Pests in Turfgrass

Determine the proper mowing height for the specific turfgrass in a lawn. Set the cutting deck on a mower to 3 inches, for example, when cutting a fescue lawn to encourage healthy growth and reduce weed invasion. Adjust the height of the setting if grass is excessively tall. Remove no more than 1/3 of the grass blade in a single cutting. Work the grass down to the 3-inch level with several cuttings if necessary.

Adjust the amount of water being applied to a lawn if fungus becomes an issue. Avoid overwatering with irrigation or a garden hose and sprinkler to reduce the chance of fungus development. Water during the early morning rather than late in the evening to reduce fungus development.

Mix fungicide in a 1 gallon garden sprayer. Add water to liquid fungicide at the rate indicated by the manufacturer. Mix the fungicide and water thoroughly and spot-apply the spray to areas where fungus is active.

Control insects such as grubs or ants with a granular insect-control product. Spread the insect control evenly across the turfgrass following the manufacturer's directions. Apply 2 to 3 pounds of insect control granules per 1,000 square feet as a rule of thumb.

Spray weed pests including dandelion, crabgrass and other weeds with a liquid herbicide. Add 2 ounces of liquid herbicide, such as glyphosate, to 1 gallon of water in a garden sprayer. Spray the herbicide directly to the stem and leaves of the weed for best results.