Bermuda Grass Brown Spots: Watering Depth and Fungus

Watering by Depth, Not Minutes

South Carolina Bermuda grass watered 75 minutes weekly at 3 AM shows small brown circles with dust-like spores in morning dew. The respondent says 75 minutes means nothing—water must penetrate 6+ inches. In 90°F+ heat, 50% evaporates before soaking in. Soaker hoses eliminate evaporation loss.

Fungus Treatment

The dust suggests a fungal disease (likely brown patch). Apply horticultural corn meal at 10–15 lbs per 1,000 sq ft and water in. Raise mowing height to 3 inches. The respondent mows at 3 inches regardless of grass type.