Dollar spot disease is a common lawn fungus in Maryland & Virginia during the summer months. Our soil scientists have created an overview of this common lawn disease and answer frequently asked questions, such as:
- What is dollar spot fungus?
- What are the signs of dollar spot?
- What does dollar spot do to lawns?
- How is dollar spot treated?
Armed with this information, you can proactively protect your lawn’s health.
What Is Dollar Spot Fungus?
Dollar spot is a lawn disease caused by a fungus called Clarireedia jacksonii. This fungus feeds on the grass blades, weakening the turf and potentially causing long-term damage if left untreated. However, recognizing the signs of this lawn disease is the first step toward effectively treating it and preventing its spread.
How to Spot Dollar Spot Fungus: Signs to Watch Out For
Dollar spot appears as distinct, small, circular patches on turfgrass. The patches are each about the size of a silver dollar, hence the name of this lawn disease. The fungus that causes it can affect all types of grasses, from cool-season to warm-season varieties.
However, patches and bare spots aren’t always due to dollar spot lawn disease. Other possible causes include lack of moisture in the soil, too much fertilizer or weedkiller, grub infestations, and dog urine.
To determine whether dollar spot is the culprit, here are some signs to look out for:
Circular Patches
As mentioned, circular patches are the most distinct sign of dollar spot fungus. These patches are typically tan or straw-colored, surrounded by a darker brown-to-purple perimeter. They can range from the size of a silver dollar to several inches in diameter. The individual patches may also merge, forming larger, irregularly shaped spots.
Cool, Moist Conditions
Dollar spot thrives in cool, moist conditions with high humidity. If your lawn is shaded and experiences frequent morning dew or evening condensation, and you start noticing patches, it is a sign that it may be infected with dollar spot.
Lesions on Grass Blades
Inspect the individual grass blades within the affected patches. If you see white to straw-colored lesions with a dark brown border, this strongly indicates dollar spot fungus.
What Is Dollar Spot Fungus Doing to Your Lawn? Effects and Consequences
Now that you know the signs to watch out for, what are the actual consequences of having dollar spot fungus on your lawn? Here are some examples of its effects on grass:
Aesthetic Damage
The most apparent effect of dollar spot fungus is the changes it causes to your lawn’s appearance. The light patches stand out from the green of your lawn, creating a visually unappealing contrast.
Weakening of Turf
The fungus feeding on the grass can weaken the turf’s overall health and strength. This can make your lawn more susceptible to other diseases and pests, as well as less resilient to wear and tear from activities.
Spread of Disease
If left untreated, dollar spot can quickly spread to other areas of your lawn or even to neighboring lawns. This process is primarily facilitated by fungal spores that can travel through the air. Rain can also splash spores to nearby healthy areas. Additionally, human or animal movement across the infected area can pick up spores and carry them to new locations, such as pets tracking spores from your yard to your neighbor’s.
Loss of Grass
Severe cases of Dollar Spot Fungus can result in the complete loss of grass in the affected areas. This can require time-consuming steps to restore your lawn to its original state, such as reseeding or sodding.
How to Get Rid of Dollar Spot Fungus
Eliminating dollar spot from your lawn can be challenging. However, if you catch the infection early and take action quickly, it’s easier to control and prevent it from spreading.
Here are some ways you can prevent and get rid of dollar spot:
Aerate and Dethatch Your Lawn
Aerating and dethatching your lawn will help improve air circulation and water infiltration, making your grass less susceptible to fungus.
Apply Fungicide
This step is best performed by a lawn care professional, such as a Blades of Green soil scientist. Once we’ve confirmed the presence of dollar spot fungus, we will apply a dollar spot fungus treatment specifically designed for this lawn disease.
Promote Overall Lawn Health
Due to poor watering practices, overfertilization, and other lawn care mistakes, a stressed lawn is more susceptible to disease. Maintaining a healthy lawn is one of the best ways to prevent and control dollar spot fungus. To keep your lawn in excellent condition, follow these basic steps:
- Provide your lawn with the right amount of water based on your grass type, climate, and weather conditions.
- Mow your lawn according to the recommended height for your specific grass type.
- Fertilize your lawn with a balanced fertilizer appropriate for your grass type and season.
Note that it’s essential that professionals, such as the Blades of Green team, fertilize your lawn. Having a lawn care expert fertilize your lawn helps prevent over-fertilizing, which can cause the fungus to spread more aggressively.
Choose Blades of Green for Effective Dollar Spot Treatment
Blades of Green is a trusted lawn care company that takes the hassle out of dealing with dollar spot fungus. Our experienced soil scientists will diagnose the problem, recommend a treatment plan, and apply the necessary treatments ourselves. Additionally, we provide preventative maintenance tips to keep your lawn healthy and resistant to future infections.
Learn more about our lawn fungus treatment and prevention services, and contact us today for a free quote.