What Are Common Summer Lawn Problems and How Do I Fix Them?

Summertime in Sevierville, TN, is when families are out enjoying their yards — but it’s also when lawns face some of their toughest challenges. Between heat, drought, pests, and diseases, summer can take a toll on even the healthiest grass.

At Sauls Land Management LLC, we know what it takes to keep your lawn green, lush, and healthy all season long. Here’s a homeowner’s guide to spotting and fixing common summer lawn problems.

How Can I Tell If My Lawn Has Grubs or Pests?

Grubs and insects can quietly damage your lawn from below and above. Watch for:

• Grubs (Japanese beetle larvae) — Look for soft, spongy patches, or areas where grass pulls up easily like a carpet. You might also see wildlife (like raccoons or skunks) digging for grubs at night.
• Chinch bugs — Cause dry, yellowing patches, especially in sunny spots. Look closely to spot tiny black-and-white bugs.
• Sod webworms — Cause brown patches and leave behind small green droppings and webbing in the grass.

How can I check for grubs myself?
Cut a small square of turf and peel it back — if you see more than 10 white, C-shaped grubs per square foot, it’s time to act.

For pest inspections and treatments, visit SaulsLandManagementLLC.com or call (865) 280-0428.

What Are Signs of Summer Lawn Diseases?

Summer heat and humidity create prime conditions for lawn diseases. Watch for:

• Brown patch — Circular patches of dead grass with darker borders, often appearing overnight.
• Dollar spot — Small, silver-dollar-sized tan spots that may merge into larger brown patches.
• Pythium blight — Greasy, matted grass with a foul smell, especially after heavy rain.

What’s the difference between disease and drought stress?
Disease often shows irregular patterns with discolored or spotted grass blades, while drought stress usually causes uniform browning.

Need help diagnosing lawn disease? Call Sauls Land Management for a professional lawn health check.

How Do I Repair Brown Patches on My Lawn?

Once you’ve identified the cause, here’s how to fix brown spots:

• For drought stress — Deep water the lawn early in the morning, 2–3 times per week.
• For pest damage — Apply targeted treatments or insecticides to stop the infestation.
• For disease — Adjust mowing and watering practices; in severe cases, apply fungicides.
• For severe damage — Reseed or patch with sod in the affected areas.

Can brown grass turn green again?
Yes — if the roots are alive and you address the problem quickly, your lawn can bounce back!

For overseeding, patch repair, or expert treatments, trust Sauls Land Management.

When Should I Call a Professional for Lawn Treatment?

DIY care works for minor issues, but you should call a pro if:

• You can’t identify the problem.
• Damage keeps spreading despite your efforts.
• You see widespread pest or disease signs.
• You need specialized treatments or repairs.

Why hire a professional lawn care company?
Professionals like Sauls Land Management have the tools, products, and local experience to solve lawn problems fast and safely.

Keep Your Lawn Beautiful All Summer with Sauls Land Management

Don’t let summer lawn problems ruin your landscape! Sauls Land Management LLC offers:

• Lawn pest and disease diagnosis
• Targeted treatments and lawn repair
• Fertilization, overseeding, and maintenance
• Expert advice tailored to Tennessee lawns

Call us today at (865) 280-0428 or visit SaulsLandManagementLLC.com to schedule a lawn care consultation. Let’s get your yard back to green, thick, and healthy — all summer long!