What are fairy rings, and how do they form?

Witch's rings are ring-shaped patterns that appear in the lawn. There are three different types, but they all have the same cause.

Organic matter in the soil is usually broken down by a network of fungal threads called mycelium. This network can spread in a ring-like pattern, and under the right weather conditions, mushrooms form. This is often caused by nutrient-poor, sandy soils. Witch’s rings can form throughout the year.

How do the different types differ?

Type 1: This fungal disease kills the grass or causes severe damage to it. Two visible rings form: The first ring consists of grass with dark green growth, and in the center of that ring, another ring of bare patches with dead grass develops. Small yellowish-brown fungi grow on the outer ring in late summer.

Type 2: Here, rings of dark green grass or more vigorous growth appear, though without the additional ring of withered grass. Occasionally, the fruiting bodies of the fungus (stalked or leafy mushrooms) can be seen alongside them.

Type 3: This type of mushroom is the least harmful. The mushroom's fruiting bodies simply form in a ring-like pattern.


How can you control witch's rings?

The underground mycelium network should be deeply pierced or torn apart with a spade or garden fork. The affected areas should be watered thoroughly. To help the water penetrate more easily, the use of wetting agents or surfactants (organic dish soap) is recommended. This helps the mycelium become saturated more quickly. Lawn thatch should also be addressed. Scarify the lawn and lightly Besanden can help here. Our turbogrün Lawn Aerator It works very well for breaking up thatch. If none of this is enough, you may need to replace the soil.

As a general rule, the following also helps here: regular fertilization and applying Turbogrün Water Manager, Water your lawn and prevent thatch buildup by using Turbogrün lawn aerators.