What characteristic marks dollar spot on affected grass?

Dollar spot is characterized by straw-colored spots that typically measure about 2 to 6 inches in diameter on affected grass. These spots can resemble dollar coins lying on the turf, which is how the disease gets its name. The symptoms are most visible during the early morning or late evening when dew is present, and they can spread rapidly under favorable conditions, primarily in warm and humid weather.

The presence of straw-colored spots is a significant indicator for diagnosing dollar spot, making it crucial for turf managers and landscapers to recognize this symptom in order to implement appropriate management strategies, such as proper cultural practices and fungicide applications. Understanding this visual cue is essential in differentiating dollar spot from other grass diseases, which may present differently.