Treating Bermuda Brown Spots: Baking Soda vs. Agricultural Corn Meal

Diagnosis

Brown patch fungus likely if grass pulls easily with few/slimy roots. Confirm before treating.

Treatment Options

Small Areas: Baking Soda Spray

• Mix 4 tsp (1 rounded tbsp) baking soda per gallon water.
• Apply with garden sprayer to affected spots. Soak soil lightly—not deep drench.
• Repeat weekly until recovery.

Large Areas: Agricultural (Horticultural) Corn Meal

• Apply 10–15 lbs per 1,000 sq ft.
• Broadcast and water in deeply (6+ inches).
• Can combine with sugar application.

Timing

Apply sugar first, then fungal treatment. No conflict—organics don't cancel each other.

Prevention

Deep weekly watering, high mowing (3+ inches), and ongoing sugar program create fungus-resistant soil. Author hasn't had lawn fungus in 8+ years.