Dollar spot lawn disease is one of the most common turf diseases in Michigan, and Grand Ledge homeowners aren’t immune. This fungal disease can quickly turn a green, healthy lawn into a patchy mess of straw-colored spots—if left unchecked.
Fortunately, recognizing the symptoms early and taking the right steps can restore your lawn’s health and prevent future outbreaks.
What Is Dollar Spot Lawn Disease?
Dollar spot is caused by the fungus Clarireedia jacksonii. It typically appears during warm, humid weather—especially when lawns are low in nitrogen and overly moist from dew or overwatering. The name comes from the disease’s signature symptom: small, silver-dollar-sized patches of tan or bleached grass.
How to Identify Dollar Spot Lawn Disease
Because it can resemble other turf problems, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are the key signs:
- Bleached or tan circles about 1–3 inches in diameter
- Leaf blades with hourglass-shaped lesions, tan in the middle with reddish-brown borders
- Patches that merge into larger irregular areas if left untreated
- Most visible in the early morning when dew is present
What Causes Dollar Spot in Grand Ledge Lawns?
Dollar spot thrives under specific conditions common to Grand Ledge summers:
- Low nitrogen levels in soil
- High humidity and dew that linger on grass blades
- Infrequent deep watering or light daily watering
- Compacted soil or poor air circulation in shady areas
How to Treat Dollar Spot Lawn Disease
The good news is that it is manageable—especially when addressed early. Here’s how to get your lawn back on track:
- Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote faster turf recovery
- Aerate compacted areas to improve drainage and airflow
- Water deeply but infrequently, preferably in the early morning
- Bag your clippings while the disease is active to prevent spreading
If the problem persists, a targeted fungicide may be necessary. LawnTech’s lawn disease control services in Grand Ledge include safe, effective treatment plans for dollar spot and other fungal issues.
How to Prevent It
As always, prevention is the best defense. To reduce your risk of developing dollar spot in the future:
- Stick to a regular fertilization schedule tailored to your lawn’s needs
- Water early in the day to allow time for grass to dry
- Mow regularly and keep blades sharp to avoid tearing grass
- Aerate your lawn annually to relieve compaction and promote healthy root growth
Need Help Treating Dollar Spot in Grand Ledge?
If you think your lawn is showing signs of dollar spot lawn disease, contact LawnTech for a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan. Our lawn care experts in Grand Ledge can help restore your turf’s health and prevent future outbreaks.
Don’t let fungus take over your lawn.
Schedule a lawn disease inspection with LawnTech today and protect your investment.
