What type of weather conditions does dollar spot favor?

Dollar spot is a fungal disease that primarily affects turfgrass, and it thrives in specific weather conditions that significantly influence its development. The correct choice highlights that warm and humid conditions create an optimal environment for the fungus responsible for dollar spot to flourish.

During warmer temperatures, particularly in the range of 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, paired with high humidity levels (often above 70% relative humidity), the conditions become conducive for spore germination and infection. This combination of warmth and moisture allows the fungus to proliferate, leading to the characteristic lesions and patches associated with dollar spot.

In contrast, the other options describe conditions that are less favorable for the disease. Cold and dry conditions do not provide the moisture necessary for the fungus to thrive, while hot and windy conditions can lead to rapid evaporation and stress in turfgrass, reducing the likelihood of dollar spot development. Similarly, cool and wet conditions, while sometimes supportive of other fungal diseases, do not provide the warmth that dollar spot requires for optimal growth. Therefore, the identification of warm and humid weather as the ideal condition for dollar spot is based on its biological needs and ecological preferences.