Identifying turfgrass disease is the first step in finding a treatment. For a handy, interactive diagnostic guide, visit www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/diseaseID/default.aspx.
To identify and deal with turfgrass weeds, you first need to find out whether the weed is a broadleaf, rush, sedge or grass. For a comprehensive identification and diagnostics guide, visit www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/turfid/Interactive.
Before grass greens up in spring, mow slightly lower than normal if there are dead grass stems and other debris. But be careful not to scalp your lawn. After the first time, remove no more than one-third of the stems in a single mowing. This will keep lawns less susceptible to drought, heat, pests and disease. If the lawn has become overgrown, mow over a period of several days to return it to the desired height.