Anthracnose is a common lawn disease that can cause unsightly patches of brown grass. These patches can vary in size, ranging from 2 to 12 inches in diameter. The affected grass may appear wilted or thin, and the color can range from light brown to almost black.
One of the key indicators of anthracnose is the presence of brown or tan blotches on the leaves of the grass. These blotches can be irregular in shape and may have a water-soaked appearance. As the disease progresses, these blotches can enlarge and merge together, resulting in larger brown patches on the lawn.
A telltale sign of anthracnose is the presence of black, spiky fruiting structures called acervuli. These structures can be found on dead grass blades within the affected patches. They may appear as small, raised bumps or dots and can often be seen with the naked eye. These acervuli are important for identifying anthracnose and differentiating it from other lawn diseases.
When inspecting your lawn for anthracnose, it is important to look for these characteristic symptoms. Take note of any irregular patches of brown grass, as well as the presence of brown or tan blotches on the leaves. If you come across any dead grass blades with black, spiky fruiting structures, it is a strong indication of anthracnose.
It is worth mentioning that the severity of anthracnose can vary depending on environmental conditions and grass species. Some grass varieties may be more susceptible to this disease than others. Additionally, certain factors such as high humidity, excessive thatch buildup, and poor lawn maintenance practices can increase the likelihood of anthracnose development.
To summarize, anthracnose on the lawn can be identified by irregular patches of brown grass, brown or tan blotches on the leaves, and the presence of black, spiky fruiting structures (acervuli) on dead grass blades. These symptoms help distinguish anthracnose from other lawn diseases and can guide appropriate treatment and prevention strategies.
