Most lawns suffer from few peats and diseases, and these can often be tolerated on general-purpose lawns. Fine Leaved grasses can be prone to a few common diseases if they are not growing strongly - but early treatment can prevent long-term damage. Other lawn problems may be cause by the nature of the site, or by algae, moss or lichen. Always consider treating the cause of such problems, such as by improving drainage, before using chemicals.
Fungal diseases are most prevalent if the soil is poorly drained, or if the weather is cool and wet. Good air circulation around plants discourages fungal disease, and leaves that have fallen onto the lawn should be removed as an accumulation often causes problems. Excess nitrogen applied to lawns in the autumn encourages soft growth that is susceptible to fungal disease in moist, cool weather.
Although lawn pests are not easy to control with chemicals, there are useful sprays that can be used against the most common lawn diseases. Unless the problem has been experienced in previous years, it should not be necessary to apply preventative sprays.
Remember not to mow immediately before or after spraying chemicals on to the lawn, and heed manufacturers instructions about restricting pets access after spraying.
Cats and dogs urine often burns lawns, more so in dry weather. Pour water over soiled areas. Use repellents. Re-seed patches that have been badly affected.