The disease is favored by dry periods alternating with prolonged, cloudy moist weather when temperatures are mild.

Signs and Symptoms:
Leaf spot may appear on the leaves from early spring to late fall. The spots (lesions) may increase rapidly in size and number. Eventually, they will girdle the grass blade, causing it to die back from the leaf tip. Ultimately, the leaves may become completely blighted, then wither and die. At this stage, the disease can progress until the entire plant dies. During this progression, large irregular lawn areas may turn yellow, then brown to straw-colored, and subsequently die.

Cultural Practices for Control:
Seed or sod with leaf spot-resistant cultivars. Avoid light, frequent watering. Avoid watering during evening hours. Mow the lawn at a height of 2" to 3'" and at a frequency that removes no more than 1/3 of the leaf blade.

Pro-Care Practices for Control:
Proper fertilization for the lawn. This also aids in the recovery of a damaged lawn. Aeration will remove excessive thatch which harbors the fungi. Treatment: For severe break-outs, it may be necessary to combine a fungicide with the other practices listed. Contact Pro-Care's customer service department or your county cooperative extension agent for recommendations.

The Pro-Care staff is always ready to assist you with your lawn. Please call if we may provide any information to enhance your lawn's health or appearance.