What to Do About Fairy Rings in Your Lawn

Are circles of mushrooms or rings of darker (or dead) grass forming a blemish in the middle of your once-perfect lawn? These strange formations, called fairy rings, have fascinated and frustrated homeowners for centuries. Ancient lore placed the blame on dancing fairies, but these days we know better. The real cause lies in the soil.

In this guide, we’ll explore the true nature of fairy rings, including what they are, why they appear, and how to get rid of them to restore your lawn’s health and beauty.

Article Contents

• What Are Fairy Rings in Grass?
• What Causes Fairy Rings in Lawns?
• Are Fairy Rings Harmful to My Lawn?
• How to Treat Fairy Rings in Grass
• When to Call The Grounds Guys

What Causes Fairy Rings in Grass?

A fairy ring is the name for a circular or arc-shaped patch of turf that looks different from the surrounding grass. The ring may consist of mushrooms, darker and thicker grass, or a brown patch.

The cause isn’t magical—it’s fungal. Fairy rings form when soil-dwelling fungi feed on organic matter (usually roots or decaying wood). As the fungus expands outward, it creates a distinctive ring shape on the surface.

There are three general types of fairy rings you might see in your yard:

• Type 1: Rings with dead or dying grass in the center, sometimes surrounded by mushrooms.
• Type 2: Rings of dark green, rapidly growing grass, often due to nitrogen released by the fungus.
• Type 3: Rings of mushrooms that appear in healthy grass with minimal visible damage.

No matter what type you have, the result is the same: An unsightly circular patch that disrupts the healthy, uniform appearance of your lawn.

What Causes Fairy Rings in Lawns?

Fairy rings are caused by fungi that decompose organic matter underground. As the fungi grow, they release nitrogen, compact the soil, and sometimes create a water-repellent layer that prevents even moisture distribution.

Common factors that contribute to fairy ring formation include:

• Thick thatch buildup or buried debris, such as roots and stumps
• Poor soil drainage or compacted areas
• Warm, humid weather conditions that favor fungal growth
• Irregular watering or irrigation patterns

Because the fungi can live deep in the soil, fairy rings often return season after season if the underlying conditions aren’t corrected.

Are Fairy Rings Harmful to My Lawn?

Although they may be an eyesore, not all fairy rings cause damage. Rings with dark green grass or mushrooms (Type 2 and Type 3) are mostly cosmetic and can typically be blended with proper fertilization. Rings that kill the grass (Type 1) are more serious and may require further attention.

Even when they don’t destroy turf, fairy rings interfere with mowing, watering, and the overall appearance of your yard. The affected areas can become dry, compacted, or uneven.

How to Treat Fairy Rings in Grass

The right treatment depends on the type and severity of the fairy ring. In many cases, improving soil health and moisture levels is the most effective solution.

1. Aerate the lawn. Core aeration relieves compaction and allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Aeration can also break up the fungal mat beneath the surface, reducing the ring’s impact.
2. Water deeply and regularly. After aeration, water thoroughly to help the soil rehydrate and flush out fungal buildup. Deep watering encourages strong root development and evens out moisture distribution.
3. Fertilize evenly. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to help blend dark and light patches and promote consistent growth. A uniform nutrient level helps mask color variation and supports recovery.
4. Dethatch and reseed. If your lawn has a thick thatch layer, remove it to reduce the fungus’s food source. Reseed bare or thin areas to restore full coverage and improve resilience.
5. Apply wetting agents. Soil wetting agents or surfactants can help water penetrate dry, hydrophobic layers. Apply after aeration for best results.

Pro tip: Use fungicides cautiously. Fungicides may suppress fungal activity, but they rarely eliminate the problem completely since fungi grow deep in the soil. If needed, apply them early in the season and follow label instructions carefully.

Can you get rid of fairy rings for good?

Fairy rings can be persistent, but long-term lawn care can greatly reduce their recurrence. Focus on soil health and prevention with these steps:

• Improve drainage and eliminate pooling water.
• Water early in the morning, allowing grass to dry by midday.
• Mow to the appropriate height for your grass type to reduce stress on the turf.
• Overseed your lawn annually to promote even growth and reduce thin spots.
• Remove any buried wood, roots, or organic debris if possible.

Healthy lawns are naturally more resistant to fungal growth, so consistent maintenance is key. If you’d like to remove and prevent fairy rings for good, a professional lawn and landscaping service near you can help.

When to Call The Grounds Guys

Fairy rings can linger for years if not properly treated. If you notice recurring circles or dead patches, it’s time to call professionals who understand local soils and growth patterns.

The Grounds Guys provide comprehensive lawn care services, including aeration, fertilization, irrigation, and pest management. Our licensed service professionals know how to identify and treat fairy rings effectively.

Contact The Grounds Guys team near you for a lawn inspection and custom treatment plan. We’ll help remove fairy rings and keep your grass in top condition. Request a free estimate today to restore your lawn and prevent future fungal problems.

This article is intended for general guidance only and is not applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and situation. The Grounds Guys are not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of advice and/or guidance derived from its blog content. The Grounds Guys services may vary by location. Contact The Grounds Guys franchise nearest you for more information.