Coastal lawns live a tough life. Between sandy soil that drains too fast, salt breezes off the ocean, and summer humidity that invites every pest in the book, yards in North Myrtle Beach need more than mowing and watering. At KeckCo Turf & Ornamental Services, we’ve seen the same issues over and over. The good news? Each has a solution when you know what you’re dealing with.
1. Brown Patch Fungus
The Problem: In late spring and early fall, high humidity and warm nights create the perfect conditions for brown patch disease. It shows up as circular, brown patches with a darker ring around the edges.
The Fix: Improve airflow by mowing at the correct height and avoid watering at night. Apply fungicides when outbreaks appear, and don’t over-fertilize in warm, humid months.
2. Chinch Bugs
The Problem: Tiny but destructive, chinch bugs suck the sap out of grass blades, leaving behind irregular yellow or brown patches that spread quickly in sunny areas.
The Fix: Keep grass healthy with proper irrigation (but not too much). For infestations, professional insecticides targeted for chinch bugs are effective. Thick, well-fed turf is your best defense.
3. Weeds (Crabgrass & Nutsedge)
The Problem: Crabgrass thrives in bare or stressed spots, while nutsedge pops up where the soil stays damp. Both can overrun a lawn if ignored.
The Fix: Apply pre-emergent herbicides in spring and fall to stop seeds before they sprout. Spot-treat problem areas with selective herbicides, and improve drainage to discourage nutsedge.
4. Compact Soil & Thatch Buildup
The Problem: North Myrtle Beach’s sandy soils compact easily under foot traffic and heavy rains. Add a layer of thatch (dead roots and stems), and water, air, and nutrients can’t reach the roots.
The Fix: Core aeration once a year relieves compaction, while dethatching or raking helps the lawn breathe. Pair with fertilization and overseeding for a thicker, healthier turf.
5. Salt & Drought Stress
The Problem: Ocean breezes bring salt spray, and summer heat can dry out shallow-rooted grass. Turf starts to thin, turn brown, or die back in exposed areas.
The Fix: Choose salt-tolerant grasses (like Bermuda or Zoysia), irrigate deeply but infrequently, and apply potassium-rich fertilizers that help grass withstand stress. Adding mulch in beds also shields ornamentals from salty winds.
A Coastal Yard Can Still Be Healthy
Every lawn problem has a solution—it just takes local knowledge and consistent care. By staying ahead of pests, improving soil health, and watering wisely, your turf can look lush year-round, even in a coastal climate.
Stop Problems Before They Spread
If your lawn is showing signs of stress, pests, or weeds, don’t wait. KeckCo Turf & Ornamental Services has the local expertise to diagnose and treat lawn problems quickly. Call 843-273-0735 or visit keckcoturf.com to schedule a lawn inspection today.
