Understanding and Managing Fungal Diseases in Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass, like any other turfgrass, it can be susceptible to various fungal diseases. Understanding these issues and how to manage them is crucial for maintaining a healthy, thriving lawn. In this blog, we’ll explore common fungal diseases affecting Bermuda grass, their symptoms, causes, and effective management strategies.

Common Fungal Diseases in Bermuda Grass

1. Brown Patch

Symptoms: Brown patch manifests as circular patches of brown or tan grass, often surrounded by a dark green ring. The affected areas can range in size from a few inches to several feet.

Causes: This disease is typically caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, which thrives in warm, humid conditions and is exacerbated by excessive nitrogen fertilizer and poor air circulation.

Management:

• Mowing: Keep grass mowed to a height of 1 to 2 inches to improve air circulation.

• Watering: Water early in the morning to allow the grass to dry out during the day. Avoid overhead irrigation.

• Fungicides: If brown patch persists, consider applying a fungicide labeled for use on Bermuda grass.

2. Dollar Spot

Symptoms: Dollar spot appears as small, circular patches of light brown or straw-colored grass, usually about the size of a silver dollar. The patches can merge and create larger areas of damage.

Causes: This disease is caused by the fungus Sclerotinia homoeocarpa and is most common during warm, humid weather, particularly in areas with low nitrogen levels.

Management:

• Fertilization: Ensure your lawn is receiving adequate nitrogen through regular fertilization.

• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Morning watering is preferred.

• Fungicides: Apply fungicides as a preventive measure in high-risk areas.

3. Pythium Blight

Symptoms: Pythium blight causes water-soaked, greasy-looking patches of grass that can turn brown quickly. It often appears after heavy rain or excessive watering.

Causes: The fungus Pythium spp. thrives in warm, wet conditions and is often associated with overwatering and poor drainage.

Management:

• Aeration: Aerate your lawn to improve drainage and reduce soil compaction.

• Watering: Adjust your watering schedule to avoid overwatering, especially during periods of high humidity.

• Fungicides: Use fungicides specifically designed for Pythium control, applied when conditions are favorable for disease development.

4. Leaf Spot

Symptoms: Leaf spot presents as small, round lesions on the grass blades that may be brown, purple, or black. Affected areas may eventually turn yellow and die.

Causes: Various fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot, typically thriving in humid conditions or where mowing equipment is contaminated.

Management:

• Mowing Practices: Regularly clean mowing equipment to prevent the spread of fungal spores.

• Cultural Practices: Promote good air circulation and sunlight exposure through proper lawn maintenance.

• Fungicides: In severe cases, apply fungicides labeled for leaf spot management.

Preventive Measures

Preventing fungal diseases is often easier than treating them once they appear. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy Bermuda grass lawn:

1. Proper Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to promote strong root systems. Aim for early morning watering to allow grass blades to dry throughout the day.

2. Fertilization: Regularly fertilize your lawn with balanced nutrients, focusing on nitrogen during the growing season.

3. Aeration: Aerate your lawn annually to relieve soil compaction and improve drainage.

4. Mowing: Maintain the recommended mowing height (1 to 2 inches) and keep mower blades sharp to prevent injury to the grass.

5. Dethatching: Remove excess thatch buildup, which can harbor diseases and restrict water and nutrient absorption.

6. Healthy Practices: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the growing season, and ensure proper lawn care practices to reduce stress on the grass.

Conclusion

Fungal diseases can pose a significant challenge for Bermuda grass lawns, but with proper management and preventive measures, you can maintain a lush and healthy lawn. Regular monitoring, appropriate cultural practices, and timely interventions are key to keeping your Bermuda grass thriving. By understanding the common fungal issues and how to manage them, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a vibrant, disease-free lawn all year round!