# My Grass Lawn Is Dying
Lawns are susceptible to a number of pathogenic- or management-induced disorders, many of which are serious enough to cause grass death. According to the North Dakota University Extension, fungal infections are the most serious of lawn disorders and are lethal.
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The Culprits
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Lawn grass is susceptible to fusarium blight caused by Fusarium culmorum or F. tricinctum. Fungal growth is most active in temperatures of 85 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Lawn grass suffering from drought in full sun is more prone to the fungus.
Damage
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Disease starts with the appearance of small, straw-colored circles of dead grass on the lawn. The diameter of the circles is from a few inches to 1 foot. Grass in the center often remains unaffected, creating a frog-eye look. Crown areas of grass develop a red-colored rot and become tough and brittle.
Control
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Adequately water and fertilize grass according to requirements to keep fungi in check. Increase mowing height and regularly dethatch lawns. Plant resistant grass varieties. Fungicidal options usually do not provide sufficient control.
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