Will these spots go away on their own?

Sometimes they fade when the weather becomes drier and less humid. However, it is best to intervene early to prevent the fungus from spreading.

Should I fertilize when I see spots?

Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization during an active fungal outbreak, as it can encourage lush growth that is more susceptible to disease.

Why are there spots on my Velvet bentgrass? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the patches for a dark ring or bleached color.
Check the soil moisture level to see if it is waterlogged.
Look at the local weather forecast for high humidity.

Likely causes

Dollar spot
Most likely
How to tell: Small, circular patches of bleached or tan grass appear during humid weather. These spots are usually about 2 to 6 inches in diameter.
What to do: Improve air circulation by pruning nearby shrubs. Apply a fungicide labeled for dollar spot if the infection spreads. Keep nitrogen levels balanced to help the grass recover.
Brown patch
Possible
How to tell: Irregular brown areas develop during hot, wet conditions. You might see a dark, smoky ring around the edge of the patch.
What to do: Avoid watering in the evening so the blades dry out overnight. Increase mowing height slightly to reduce stress. Use a fungicide if the weather remains consistently hot and wet.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your velvet bentgrass

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the spots start merging and covering large sections of your lawn. Small, isolated spots are usually manageable with quick cultural changes.

Stopping it coming back

Water early in the morning to allow the grass to dry during the day. Keep your mower blades sharp to prevent ragged cuts that invite infection.

Velvet bentgrass: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your velvet bentgrass and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will these spots go away on their own?: Sometimes they fade when the weather becomes drier and less humid. However, it is best to intervene early to prevent the fungus from spreading.
Should I fertilize when I see spots?: Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization during an active fungal outbreak, as it can encourage lush growth that is more susceptible to disease.

Guides to these causes

Dollar Spot

Why are there spots on my Velvet bentgrass?