Lethal Viral Necrosis

There is a new deadly virus spreading into Hillsborough County lawns. It is called Mosaic Virus or Lethal Viral Necrosis. It specifically targets the St. Augustine “Floritam” variety. It’s appearance is similar to a fungus infection. Unfortunately, there is no cure or treatment currently available. It shows it’s self more during the cooler months. Over a course of about 3 years it will eventually begin to kill the effected areas.

We are taking reasonable recommended steps to slow the spread which include. Being sure to only blow clippings into the yard them came from. Blowing clippings off mower deck before moving to new areas. making reasonable attempts to not mow excessively wet lawns. Taking care to not spread visibly effected areas.

If your lawn is effected, there is no currently available treatment available. The recommended action is to replace effected areas with a different variety of grass. St. Augustine “Palmetto” variety is the best alternative for sunny areas and St. Augustine “Bitter Blue” or “Seville” are good for heavily shaded areas.

There is more information available in The University of Florida’s website at https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/2019/01/14/lethal-viral-necrosis-associated-with-sugarcane-mosaic-virus-scmv-frequently-asked-questions/