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Identifying and Treating Dollar Spot Disease in Your Lawn

Dollar spot disease is a common fungal infection that affects lawns, particularly those composed of cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, and fescue. It is named after the small, silver-dollar-sized spots it creates on the grass blades.

Identification

Identifying dollar spot disease is relatively easy once you know what to look for. The symptoms include:

• Small, circular patches: The affected areas are usually 2-6 inches in diameter and have a bleached or straw-colored appearance.
• Distinct borders: The patches often have well-defined edges, making them stand out from the surrounding healthy grass.
• White or tan lesions: Upon closer inspection, you may notice small, sunken lesions on the grass blades, which give the disease its characteristic “dollar spot” appearance.
• Early morning dew: Dollar spot disease is most active during periods of high humidity, so you may notice a heavy presence of dew on the affected areas in the morning.

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Treatment

Once you have identified dollar spot disease in your lawn, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent its spread and minimize damage. Here are some effective treatment methods:

Fungicide application: Apply a fungicide specifically formulated to target dollar spot disease. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer, and make sure to cover the affected areas thoroughly.

Proper watering: Avoid overwatering your lawn, as excessive moisture can promote the growth of fungal pathogens. Instead, water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.

Mowing practices: Maintain a proper mowing height for your grass type, as taller grass blades provide better shade and reduce moisture loss. Additionally, regularly clean and disinfect your mower blades to prevent the spread of fungal spores.

Aerate and dethatch: Improve air circulation and reduce thatch buildup by aerating your lawn and removing excessive thatch. This helps create an unfavorable environment for the disease to thrive.

Improve soil fertility: Conduct a soil test to determine if any nutrient deficiencies are contributing to the disease. Adjust the pH and apply appropriate fertilizers to promote healthy grass growth.

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Remember, prevention is key when it comes to managing dollar spot disease. Maintaining proper lawn care practices, such as regular fertilization, adequate watering, and proper mowing, can help prevent the disease from taking hold in the first place.

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