Will these spots kill my grass?

Usually no. Most fungal spots are cosmetic and won't kill a healthy, established plant.

Should I cut the whole plant down?

Only if the infection is extreme. Otherwise, just remove the damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy.

Chinese silver grass: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the leaves for signs of fungal growth or insect trails.
Check the soil moisture to ensure it is not staying soggy.
Clear away dead debris from around the base of the plant.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small brown or tan spots with dark borders scattered across the blades. These spots often appear after periods of heavy rain or high humidity.
What to do: Trim away the most heavily affected leaves to improve airflow. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry. Apply a copper based fungicide if the infection continues to spread.
Pest Damage
Possible
How to tell: Slugs and snails leave behind irregular holes or ragged edges on the young, tender foliage. Look for slime trails near the base of the plant in the early morning.
What to do: Handpick slugs and snails in the evening when they are active. Place a shallow dish of beer near the base to trap them. Use iron phosphate pellets around the perimeter if the infestation is severe.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese silver grass

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

Small spots are rarely fatal, but you should worry if the spots cover more than half the foliage or cause the entire plant to collapse. A few spots on older leaves at the end of the season are perfectly normal.

Stopping it coming back

Space your plants properly to ensure good air circulation and always water at the base rather than over the leaves.

Chinese silver grass: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese silver grass 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 kill my grass?: Usually no. Most fungal spots are cosmetic and won't kill a healthy, established plant.
Should I cut the whole plant down?: Only if the infection is extreme. Otherwise, just remove the damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Variegated Silver Grass have spots on its leaves?