Diseases in Turf Grass With Dead Rings
- One turf grass disease that causes dead rings in grass is necrotic ring spot, which usually attacks Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass and red fescue. According to the University of Illinois Extension, this disease is caused by a fungus, which attacks the grass roots. Another common turf grass disease is summer patch, which causes circular patches of dead grass to develop in hot weather. Fairy rings are caused by fungi and are characterized by round, dead spots in grass with mushrooms developing inside the circles.
- Fungal diseases such as necrotic ring spot and summer patch cause dead patches in turf grass. Disease often appears several years after grass is established and is often worse during the hot, summer months. Fairy rings are often very large, ranging from several inches to over 50 feet wide.
- Fungicides are often helpful in controlling diseases in turf grass. Contact your local extension office for advice on chemical control.
