Microbials To Treat Dollar Spot: An Environmentally Friendly Approach To Disease Management
Dollar spot, caused by the fungi species Clarireedia spp., is a common turfgrass disease that affects both cool-season and warm-season grasses, as well as certain agricultural crops. With a significant economic impact on industries like turfgrass and golf, the research and treatment of dollar spots have become crucial. In this article, we explore the symptoms, life cycle, growth conditions, and various methods of prevention and control, including the use of microbes as an environmentally friendly approach to managing microbials to treat dollar spot. Symptoms of Dollar Spot Dollar spot infects the leaves and stems of turfgrass, leading to the development of circular or irregularly shaped patches of light tan or straw-coloured turfgrass. These patches, approximately the size of a silver dollar, range from 10 to 40 mm in diameter. The affected grass blades become thin and brittle, causing a decline in the overall health and appearance of the turf. Additional symptoms include hourglass-lik