![\"\"](\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/entomologyresearch\/files\/2024\/10\/Fig.-1-833x1024.jpg\")
Symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As turfgrass \u201cgreens up\u201d, well-defined circular patches of dead, bleached-out grass are noticeable in affected areas (Figure 1). Non-infected bermudagrass resumes growth, accentuating the infected areas. Roots, rhizomes and stolons are sparse and dark-colored (necrotic) (Figure 2). Leaves become bleached, gray and straw-colored. Recovery from the disease is slow. Since the turfgrass in affected patches is dead, the primary means of recovery occurs by spread of stolons into the patch. Because recovery is dependent on lateral infill of surrounding bermudagrass, symptoms can remain visible well into the growing season. If not managed properly, these patches may reappear in the same location the following spring along with weed species that may invade the voids (Figure 3). Patches can get larger year after year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While SDS symptoms are unique and conspicuous, initial identification can be difficult. Definitive identification often requires the intervention of expert diagnosticians. The University of Georgia County Extension Agents (https:\/\/extension.uga.edu\/county-offices.html<\/a>) in collaboration with the UGA CAES Plant Pathology Department Plant Disease Clinic (https:\/\/plantpath.caes.uga.edu\/extension\/plant-disease-clinics.html<\/a>) offer support in the diagnosis. UGA extension personnel can work with you in the deployment of the latest SDS management strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The primary cultivars grown and used in sport fields in Georgia are susceptible to SDS. In general, cultivars with more cold tolerance have less SDS than non-cold tolerant bermudagrasses. On sites where SDS has been a chronic problem, conversion to a tolerant cultivar is an option for disease management. Complete control of SDS in a single growing season is uncommon. It typically takes two to four years of proper cultural management and fungicide applications before acceptable control can be achieved. This has led to SDS becoming one of the more difficult diseases for growers to manage on an annual basis. Cultural practices that improve the cold-hardiness of bermudagrass can be particularly effective for managing SDS. Proper use of nitrogen fertilizers is important because high nitrogen levels can reduce the winter hardiness of bermudagrass. It is recommended that no more than \u00bd lb of nitrogen per 1000 ft2<\/sup> be applied after mid-September. Potassium applications in the fall (September or October) that total 1 lb K2<\/sub>O per 1000 ft2<\/sup> can be helpful in improving the winter hardiness of bermudagrass and thus reduce SDS severity. Potassium applications should be applied based on results of soil tests. A neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH has been linked to increased severity of SDS. Maintain soil pH at 5.8 to 6.2. Use acid-forming fertilizers on sites with near neutral to alkaline pH. Apply iron, manganese, and other micronutrients based on results of soil tests. You can select a soil test at your local extension office that measures iron and manganese and adjust levels based on the results. Any soil condition that reduces bermudagrass root growth such as compaction, excessive thatch (> \u00bd in), and poor drainage can also increase the severity of SDS. Core aeration and other practices that reduce soil compaction and encourage the production of new roots can be helpful in managing this disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Timing, selection, and application of fungicides are important for preventative management of SDS. Research has shown that one application of fungicide in the fall when soil temperatures are between 60\u00b0 and 75\u00b0 F provides the best control of SDS. When disease pressure is high, growers may want to make two applications. If a second application is necessary, it should be made 4 to 6 weeks after the first application when soil temperatures are between 60\u00b0 and 75\u00b0 F (visit http:\/\/www.georgiaweather.net\/<\/a> for up-to-date meterological information at your, or near your location). For improved results, it is recommended that fungicide applications be applied at high spray volumes (> 5.0 gal\/1000 ft2<\/sup>) and immediately watered-in. There have been mixed results from turfgrass managers around the state regarding chemical control of SDS. Those who have seen good results indicate they spray preventative fungicides that target SDS each year and have been doing so for several years. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that controlling SDS takes time and usually cannot be obtained in a single season. for a complete list of fungicides, formulations and specific information for SDS management consult the Georgia Pest Management Handbook (http:\/\/www.ent.uga.edu\/pmh\/<\/a>) and the Turfgrass Pest Control Recommendations for Professionals (http:\/\/www.georgiaturf.com<\/a>). Some fungicide options have specific site usage (i.e. are exclusively for golf course settings). If you are a homeowner and do-it-yourself consult the \u201chome turf disease control\u201d section in the Georgia Pest Management Handbook Home and Garden Edition. Always check fungicide labels for specific instructions, restrictions, special rates, recommendations, follow up applications and proper handling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This article was updated and modified from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/entomologyresearch\/files\/2024\/10\/Fig.-2.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/site.caes.uga.edu\/entomologyresearch\/files\/2024\/10\/Fig.-3-1024x683.jpg\")
Disease management<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Diagnosis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cultivar selection and cultural practices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Chemical control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n