One of the most noticeable and destructive diseases of bermudagrass is
known as Spring Dead Spot (SDS). The disease was first described in a publication
in Oklahoma in 1960. It is thought to have been present in Oklahoma since
1936. Since that time, SDS has been observed in most states where bermudagrass
is grown. The prevalence and severity of the disease has been increasing
for several years and it may be the most destructive disease of bermudagrass
in some states. In Texas, SDS has been observed in all areas except extreme
South Texas. The disease has been particularly severe in North Texas and
the Texas Panhandle.
In North America, three fungi have been shown to cause SDS: Leptosphaeria
korrae, Ophiosphaerella herpotricha, and Gaeumannomyces graminis
var. graminis.
The symptoms of SDS are small circular dead areas of bermuda-grass 6 inches
to several feet in diameter in the spring as bermuda-grass resumes growth
from winter dormancy. The bermudagrass roots and stolons in affected spots
appear dark and rotted. The grass recovers very slowly during the summer
months from stolons creeping in from the border of affected areas. Bermudagrass
stolons that grow into the affected areas usually produce short, stubby
roots. In Texas, it is usually mid-summer before the affected areas are
covered by bermudagrass, and the areas are visible throughout the summer
because of thin turf and weeds. The disease develops again the following
year in the same areas. The spots enlarge each year and after 2 to 3 years
may develop into circular areas where bermudagrass survives in the center.
At this stage the symptoms can be confused with those of fairy ring.
All varieties of bermudagrass are susceptible to SDS. Hybrid bermudagrasses
such as Tifgreen appear to be the most commonly affected. The disease does
not usually develop until 3 to 4 years after establishment and may be associated
with moderately thatchy turf.
In California and Australia the disease has been controlled by repeated
applications of fungicides such as Banner, Tersan 1991, and Rubigan. The
applications must begin in late summer or early autumn when the fungus is
thought to be the active. Judicious use of nitrogen fertilizer helps to
reduce disease severity. Ammonium-based nitrogen fertilizer combined with
potassium helps reduce SDS over time.