Organic Management of Dollar Spot Fungus in Cool-Season Lawns

Introduction

Dollar spot (a fungal disease) worsens in the second year of organic transition. Deep watering and baking soda spray provide control while soil biology matures.

Immediate Treatment

• Baking Soda Spray: 1/4 cup per gallon water; saturate affected areas.
• Deep Watering: 6-inch depth; rewater when top 2 inches dry. Shallow daily watering promotes fungus.

Long-Term Organic Program

• Total organics only—no chemicals (they kill beneficial microbes).
• Sugar (1 lb/250 sq ft) spring and fall feeds microbes.
• Corn gluten: fungicide + nutrient source.
• Resources: Howard Garrett's Dirt Doctor (ground crew $25/year).

Timeline

3 years to build clay soil biology. Persist with organics; dollar spot will fade as soil health peaks.

Conclusion

Combine immediate baking soda treatment with full organic program for lasting dollar spot suppression.