Fairy Rings

Fairy rings normally occur in poor light soils or quite often in an area where tree stumps have been cut down below the lawn surface and left in the soil to rot.   Fungi form in the soil and develop threads that pack together very closely and eventually starve the grass roots of both water and nutrients.   The effect on the lawn can vary and conventionally fairy rings are grouped into three classes depending on the severity of the infection.

Class 1

class1 fairy rings

The most severe, a dry, dying ring forms in the lawn, sandwiched between two dark rings.   The dying ring sometimes contains white fluffy deposits which are mycelium; this white substance will also be seen in the soil if lightly excavated.

The two outer rings look dark and healthy.   This is due to the release of nitrogen as a result of the causal fungi decomposing the organic matter within the soil.

Class 2

Similar to class 1 but without the dying area in between the two dark rings.   A single ring or part of the ring, forming an arc, is created.

This is the most common class found in UK lawns.

class2 fairy rings

Dry Patch

class3 fairy rings

Rings or arcs of fruiting bodies such as mushrooms or toadstools.   Normally no damage is caused to the grass.

Depending on the severity of the fairy ring, chemical, cultural or both types of treatment may be required. We will be happy to advise what treatments are appropriate for your lawn.

If you require professional lawn care services or lawn treatment and lawn renovation services from a specialist based in Cirencester, Swindon, Stroud, Cheltenham, Lechlade or surrounding areas, then contact us today.