slimy nostoc algae on lawn due to overwatered sod

Don’t get slimed. Stop overwatering.

Hot, dry weather like we’ve experienced recently can lead some homeowners to overwater their lawns. In the following article, originally published in the CAES News at the University of Georgia, Coopoerative Extension Turfgrass Specialist Clint Walz outlines an unwanted result of overwateringslimy algae that can be difficult to control.

Lawn Algae: Nostoc

The jelly-like matter is Nostoc, a genus of cyanobacterium formerly classified as blue-green algae. The algae commonly known as star jelly and witch’s butter, among other names, may appear suddenly in lawns and other turf areas in warm temperatures following a period of rain, and the algae can also be an indication of overwatering.  

Nostoc in Turf


Nostoc’s Favorite Environment


Safety Hazard

In its hydrated, gelatinous, green state, it can be a safety hazard because it’s slippery—so be careful walking on it. However, when it dries out, it can restrict turfgrass growth. Nostoc dries into a black crust that can prevent stolons (commonly called runners) from rooting, or “tacking,” into the soil. This delays the growth and spread of turfgrass.

nostoc blue-green algae

How to Control Nostoc


  1. Check your irrigation system

    The first step is to check the irrigation system to make sure it is watering properly. The turfgrass species grown in Georgia perform better when grown on the slightly dry side, so scaling back irrigation and adjusting the irrigation schedule will benefit the grass and can discourage algae.

  2. Improve soil and surface drainage

    The second step is to improve the internal soil and surface drainage. Core aeration opens the soil, allows oxygen into the root system and reduces compaction. Allow the soil surface to dry out, then break up the Nostoc “crust” by cutting only the upper ¼- to ½-inch. Breaking the algae into pieces would encourage it to spread. Slicing up the top layer permits the turfgrass stolons to root into thin areas and outcompete the Nostoc.  

With proper irrigation and core aerification, the grass can cover and eventually predominate the area where the Nostoc was present.

If you have something unidentifiable growing in your grass, give our Certified Turfgrass Professionals a call at 770.832.8608 or email at

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