This lawn disease, also called tip burn, is caused by a fungus (Septoria species) that infects most northern grass species and bermudagrass. It is most prevalent in the cool, wet weather of early spring and fall. Unfertilized lawns are most susceptible. The disease usually attacks in the spring, declines during the hot summer months, and returns in the fall. Because the disease infects the leaf tips first, frequent mowing removes much of the diseased part of the blades.
Treat the infected lawn with a fungicide containing maneb or chlorothalonil as soon as the discoloration appears. Repeat the treatment three more times, 7 to 10 days apart, or as long as weather favorable for the disease continues. Keep the lawn healthy and vigorous by following the guidelines for good lawn care in Watering, Mowing, Fertilizing, and Thatch. Mow the lawn regularly. Since no variety is completely resistant, plant a blend of two or three disease-tolerant varieties.
