That's a tough question to answer without sounding like a wise guy but I'll try. You see, in order to effectively prevent fungus from growing, you'll need to get product applied at least 2 weeks before the conditions enable the fungus to grow. Unfortunately this is not an exact date but rather a "window of time" during the warm season when the conditions peak out and the fungus spores blossom. Having lived in the northeast, I would say it can start as early as May but the most common problem months are no doubt July and August.

I've also seen where some grass types are likely to have problems sooner compared to other grass types so this will factor in. Lastly, it's smart to make note of when you start seeing problems develop in your yard. If you notice it seems to start around the first or second week of July, get some FUNGICIDE GRANULES applied at the start of June. Conversely, if you find late June is when it seems to take off, make sure you're applying some by the end of May. Again, this is not an exact science so there is no official start date.

That being said, it's always best to get product out sooner rather than later. One other point worth noting; it's critical to have a balanced PH so make sure you've checked this and that you're soil is healthy. A bad SOIL PH can indirectly lead to fungus growth along with all kinds of other turf issues.

Here are direct links to the information and products listed above:

Fungicide Granules:  http://www.bugspraycart.com/yard/fungicide/bayleton-granules

PH Control:  http://www.soil-ph.com/soil-ph

First, all our LAWN FUNGICIDES are pet safe when used properly. Take the time to watch our "concentrate safety video" which you can find on our PRODUCT SAFETY VIDEO PAGE. The first video near the top of the page discusses how to properly store, handle and apply any concentrate we carry. You should find all the answers to your questions in this presentation including discussion on how to treat where pets will be active. If you are still concerned or have more questions, give us a call toll free at 1.800.877.7290.

And product 953329, which is LIQUID DACONIL, will work on Brown Patch. If you have a small area to treat, this should handle the job fine. If you have a large lawn, consider one of the larger sizes as this will prove to be most economical in the long run.

Additionally, be sure your SOIL PH is in balance before beginning any treatment routine. As explained in our SOIL PH CONTROL ARTICLE, this is a huge problem that many people don't know even exists. One of the most common variables that will lead to lawn fungus is a soil PH that is low. Once you are sure you're PH is Ok, then you can proceed with treatments knowing full well your effort will provide good results.