El Toro spots

Kaimuki21 – posted 09 November 2003 03:18

Anyone have any ideas about my El Toro lawn spots? The lawn has been in for 15 years, doing well until last week when suddenly these light yellow green patches appeared in the previously dark green lawn. Live in Hawaii, not any new lawn chemicals or different conditions. There is even an area where the yellow green area looks like a lawn mower streak. Haven’t been getting anymore rain than normal, in fact we’re in a semi drought and can only water Tuesday, Thursday, and Sundays. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

zoysia grower in MD – posted 13 November 2003 14:23

quote:Originally posted by Kaimuki21:Anyone have any ideas about my El Toro lawn spots? The lawn has been in for 15 years, doing well until last week when suddenly these light yellow green patches appeared in the previously dark green lawn. Live in Hawaii, not any new lawn chemicals or different conditions. There is even an area where the yellow green area looks like a lawn mower streak. Haven’t been getting anymore rain than normal, in fact we’re in a semi drought and can only water Tuesday, Thursday, and Sundays. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

I grow meyer zoysia in the mid atlantic and would suggest close inspection around the base of the plants for insects or diseases. Chinch bugs often cause this type of injury in our area. Around here, the bug is a quarter to three eigths inch long resembling a gnat but with a distinct black diamond shape in the middle of the back where their wings cross. On warm days, you can watch them run up and down the leaves of the plants. Check the surrounding areas around the spots as the bugs will be looking for fresh plants to suck on. A sample to your local extension or university can also help to identify your problem.

grass guy hawaii – posted 12 February 2004 17:06

I live in Kaimuki so give me the address and I will come and look. It soulds like the grtass was long and they scalped it and left clumps or rows of clippings on the surface.