Spring dead spot favors cool, wet weather in the spring and fall and daily temperatures of less than 60°F in November. This disease is typically found where thatch is more than 1/2-inch thick and in locations with poor drainage and low potash levels. Heavy applications of nitrogen in late summer often increase disease severity the following spring. Spring dead spot is more severe on bermuda grass that is over three-years old and in locations with long dormancy and cold temperatures.
Infected bermuda grass shows disease symptoms as it emerges from winter dormancy. Spring dead spot appears as bleached, straw-colored, circular patches that measure up to several feet in diameter. The roots of affected plants turn dark brown to black. These areas are dead. Recovery occurs as surrounding turf grass covers originally infected patches.
There is no available cure for spring dead spot. Fungicide applications have only shown to reduce activity not eliminate it.
Here are some other suggestions to consider if you believe you have spring dead spots:
Thatch reduction through annual de-thatching and clipping removal.
Aerating annually to improve air and water movement in the soil.
Addressing areas of poor drainage by top dressing or drainage installation.
Fertility management starting in early spring to trigger bermuda recovery.
In severe cases - fungicide treatments late summer through fall may serve as reduction.