How may fairy rings appear in turf grass?

Fairy rings are a fascinating phenomenon often observed in turf grass and can manifest in various ways. The correct answer describes a ring of mushrooms or a dark-green ring.

This occurs due to a natural process involving fungi. As the fungi decompose organic matter in the soil, they grow outward in a circular pattern, leading to two distinct appearances. First, the growth of mushrooms is a common sight when this mycelial network reaches the surface and produces fruiting bodies. Secondly, the decomposition activity enhances the nutrient availability in the soil, which can stimulate the growth of grass in a ring shape, resulting in a more vibrant, dark-green appearance compared to the surrounding areas.

The other choices describe signs that are not characteristic of fairy rings. A patch of dead grass may indicate issues such as drought stress or disease rather than fungal activity. A completely brown area might signal severe turf stress or damage, which does not relate to the circular growth pattern of fairy rings. A spread of white powder could suggest a fungal infection like powdery mildew, but this is unrelated to the effects of fairy rings and their respective growth habits.