Fusarium Blight in the Lawn

Our Ohio lawn was diagnosed with fusarium blight. We used a fungicide but the disease seems to be spreading throughout the lawn. Someone told us we would have to replace all the sod. I hope this isn't the case?

Don't replace your lawn just yet. Fusarium blight (actually a complex of fungal organisms) often runs its course in 3 to 5 years. There is no cultural or chemical control that has proven 100% effective. Start by improving the health and vigor of your lawn. Avoid "feeding or starving" the disease. Fertilize lightly in late May, again in early September and a final time in late October or early November. Keep the grass 3 to 4 inches tall. Water during dry periods. Proper care won't cure the disease but a healthy lawn will tolerate the disease and recover more quickly. Fungicides may or may not help suppress the disease. Only use fungicides labeled for use on fusarium blight in the lawn. These can be applied as soon as the disease appears. Repeat as needed once or twice during the growing season. Be sure to read and follow all label directions before using this or any other product.