What is Dollar Spot?

Dollar Spot is a turf disease that affects many different varieties of turf. As the name suggests, the appearance of this disease is usually identifiable as dollar sized spots of discoloured grass. The leaves often have the appearance of straw like lesions that have a reddish-brown border.

If left untreated, it will spread to form bigger patches of affected grass. Dollar Spot is most prevalent in humid conditions where cool nights produce a heavy dew.

In the early mornings, web-like fine threads can sometimes be seen which disappear as the day warms up.

These threads are called mycelium and produce the fungal pathogen that causes Dollar Spot. And while it isn’t a serious issue in home lawns, it still produces unsightly discoloured patches. Damage to turf is usually more severe in lawns that are deficient of nitrogen and is most easily spread by water, mowers and shoes.

How to prevent Dollar Spot?

Often with fungal diseases the best remedy is simply good lawn practices. Regularly fertilising your lawn throughout the year will prevent nitrogen deficiency.

Regular mowing will also help reduce thatch build up which can create the ideal environment for this disease to grow. When watering, it is best to do so in the early mornings or afternoons when a long deep soaking will be more beneficial.