The Diseases in Coastal Bermuda Grass

Anthracnose

• Anthracnose is a common fungal disease of coastal bermudagrass. In warm, dry weather older leaves may develop brownish red lesions or outgrowths of black fungus and will die quickly. During cooler, wet weather stems will rot. To minimize anthracnose, reduce foot traffic and only water grass enough to keep it from wilting. Also utilize a balanced, slow release complete fertilizer such as 16-4-8. To minimize anthracnose, allow grass to grow slightly longer, up to 1 1/2 inches tall.

Leaf Spot

• Leaf spot is another fungal disease of coastal bermudagrass, but usually appears in grass that is stressed by drought or other diseases. It appears as brown or black, uneven spots on leaves and may cause severely damaged grass to turn straw-like in color. In coastal bermudagrass, leaf spot is often caused by low soil potassium or nitrogen in sandy soil. Properly fertilizing coastal bermudagrass with balanced, slow release complete fertilizer, such as 16-4-8, and cleaning up clippings after cutting will help prevent leaf spot. Burning dormant coastal bermudagrass in spring can also control the disease.

Rust

• Rust is another fungus that can affect coastal bermudagrass, although it does not typically cause substantial damage unless the area below the canopy remains humid after the disease appears. Rust appears as purplish gray, pus-filled blisters that eventually rupture, causing leaves to die young. If you notice rust, cut coastal bermudagrass immediately to prevent the accumulation of humidity and spread of disease. Water early in the morning to prevent excess humidity.

Spring Dead Spot

• Spring dead spot appears as large, dead or whitish spots in coastal bermudagrass that may expand over the course of several years. Weeds often sprout inside the dead patches. If you notice patches early, dig them up with a spade, removing any grass inside and near the patches. Ensure that you are adequately fertilizing your lawn.