Keeping a lush, green lawn in Pittsburgh can be challenging, especially when diseases like dollar spot start to creep in. If you’ve noticed small, circular patches on your grass that seem to be getting worse, it could be a sign of dollar spot disease. Understanding what this disease is, how it develops, and what you can do to prevent it is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of dollar spot disease and offer practical advice on managing and preventing it.
Dollar spot disease thrives in specific environmental and cultural conditions commonly found in Pittsburgh. One of the primary factors is humidity. The fungus responsible for dollar spot can spread quickly when the Pittsburgh weather is warm and humid. Rainy seasons and overwatering can exacerbate this problem, creating a perfect breeding ground for the disease.
Another significant factor is lawn care practices. Poor mowing habits, such as cutting the grass too short, can stress the turf and make it more susceptible to infections. Additionally, lawns that are not fertilized adequately lack the nutrients to fight off diseases.
Finally, the fungus that causes dollar spot can linger in thatch—a layer of dead grass and organic material that builds up between the soil and the live grass blades. This thatch provides a safe haven for the fungus, allowing it to survive through adverse conditions and re-emerge when the weather becomes favorable.
Identifying dollar spot disease early is vital for effective management. The disease manifests as small, straw-colored patches on the grass, typically ranging from the size of a silver dollar to several inches in diameter. These patches may initially appear sporadically but can expand and merge, creating larger affected areas.
Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the grass blades within these patches have tan or white lesions with reddish-brown borders. These lesions can girdle the blades, causing them to die back from the tip down. In severe cases, the grass may appear to be thinned out or have a “scorched” look.
Preventing dollar spot disease involves adopting proper lawn care practices and treatments. Here are some practical tips for homeowners:
Proper Mowing Techniques:
Maintain your grass at a height of at least 3 to 4 inches. Avoid cutting off more than one-third of the grass blade each time you cut the grass, as this can stress the turf and create a higher risk for disease. Keep the mower blades sharp to ensure cleaner cuts and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Watering Practices:
Water the lawn deeply but infrequently to help encourage deep root growth. Don’t water your lawn in the late afternoon or evening, as prolonged leaf wetness can promote fungal growth. Instead, water should be used in the early morning hours to allow the grass to absorb the water and dry throughout the day.
Dollar spot is best managed before it begins. This can be done by following the lawn care practices outlined above and using a consistent lawn care plan with professional treatments such as fall aeration to remove thatch, which helps increase airflow to the lawn and makes fertilization more effective.
Professionals at Superior Lawn Care should treat lawns currently affected by dollar spot. We can expertly apply fungicide to your lawn to resolve the infection. These treatments will also help prevent it from recurring.
Dollar spot disease can be a frustrating challenge for homeowners in Pittsburgh, but with proactive measures, it can be effectively managed. You can maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn by recognizing the causes and symptoms of dollar spot, implementing preventive lawn care practices, and seeking professional assistance when needed.
Early detection is crucial to preventing the spread of dollar spot disease. Stay vigilant and take action at the first signs of trouble. For expert guidance and tailored treatments, consider reaching out to Superior Lawn Care. Our team of professionals can help you keep your lawn in top condition, free from the threat of dollar spot disease.
Investing in proactive lawn care, like our Five Application Lawn Care Program, enhances the beauty of your property and ensures a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for you and your family. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start implementing these tips today and enjoy a lush, green lawn all season long.