Take-All Patch in St. Augustine: Compost, Garlic, and Patience

Your St. Augustine in Buda, TX has Take-All Root Rot (confirmed by microscope). Cultural practices are your best weapon: aerate, balanced fertilization, deep watering, pH 6.0–6.5.

Topdress heavily with thermophilic compost (made >131°F)—it’s naturally antifungal and feeds for a year+. Recovery is slow; overseed with good varieties.

For a organic boost, try a garlic drench: crush several heads in a quart of water, add Ivory soap (emulsifier) and cooking oil (spreader), dilute to 2–3 gallons, soak affected areas, water in, then apply compost. It’s a short-term antifungal and pest deterrent.

Fungicides work now (fall), but culture wins long-term. Peat moss (acidic) may help temporarily, but compost builds lasting health.