Dollar Spot Fungus: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
The Dollar Spot Fungus is a common fungal disease that affects turfgrass. It appears as small, circular patches of dead grass that are about the size of a silver dollar coin. These patches can spread quickly and damage large areas of turf if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Dollar Spot Fungus.
What is Dollar Spot Fungus?
The Dollar Spot Fungus (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa) is a fungal disease that affects many types of turfgrass, including bentgrass, bermudagrass, bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass, and zoysiagrass. It is most prevalent in warm, humid climates and typically occurs during the summer months.
Symptoms of Dollar Spot Fungus
The primary symptom of Dollar Spot Fungus is small, circular patches of dead grass that are about the size of a silver dollar coin. These patches can range in size from a few inches to several feet in diameter, and they often have a bleached or straw-colored appearance. The patches may merge together over time, forming larger areas of dead or dying turf. Other symptoms of Dollar Spot Fungus include:
- Yellow or white lesions on leaves
- Fuzzy white growth on blades of grass
- Thin or stunted turfgrass
Causes of Dollar Spot Fungus
The Dollar Spot Fungus is typically caused by stress factors that weaken the turfgrass, making it more susceptible to infection. Some common stress factors that can lead to Dollar Spot Fungus include:
- Mowing too low
- Overwatering or watering at night
- Poor soil fertility or compaction
- Shade or poor air circulation
- High humidity and warm temperatures
Dollar Spot Fungus can also be spread through infected grass clippings, equipment, or shoes. Proper sanitation and maintenance practices can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Treatments for Dollar Spot Fungus
The best way to treat Dollar Spot Fungus is to address the underlying stress factors that are weakening the turfgrass. Here are some tips for treating and preventing the disease:
- Improve soil fertility and reduce compaction by aerating and fertilizing regularly
- Avoid mowing the turfgrass too low
- Water deeply and infrequently, preferably in the early morning hours
- Prune trees and shrubs to improve air circulation and reduce shade
- Apply fungicides according to label instructions
If you suspect that your turfgrass is infected with Dollar Spot Fungus, it is important to act quickly to prevent the disease from spreading. Contact a professional lawn care service for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
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