The term "dollar spot" refers to a fungal disease that commonly affects turfgrass on golf courses and other landscaped areas. The spelling of this term follows the standard English pronunciation, with the initial /d/ sound followed by the short /ɑ/ vowel sound, represented by the letter "o". The final /r/ sound is also pronounced. The phonetic transcription of "dollar spot" is [ˈdɑlər spɑt], with stress on the first syllable of "dollar". Proper lawn care and fungicide treatments can help control and prevent this common disease.
Dollar spot is a commonly used term in the field of agriculture and turfgrass management, specifically referring to a turfgrass disease caused by the fungus Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. This fungal pathogen primarily affects cool-season grasses such as bentgrass, fescue, and ryegrass. The name "dollar spot" is derived from the small, silver dollar-sized white lesions it creates on the turf.
Characterized by round or oval-shaped spots, dollar spot primarily occurs during periods of high humidity, warm temperatures (60-85°F), and prolonged leaf wetness. These factors create an ideal environment for fungal growth and activity. Early symptoms of dollar spot include light-brown lesions on the leaves, measuring about 1-3 inches in diameter. These patches eventually turn straw-colored or tan, causing the grass to appear bleached or burned.
The disease is commonly spread through infected clippings, contaminated equipment, and wind-borne spores. Factors such as poor soil drainage, low nitrogen levels, excessive thatch, compacted soil, and inadequate air circulation can also contribute to the development and severity of dollar spot.
Effective management strategies for dollar spot include cultural practices such as mowing at optimal heights, regular core aeration, proper irrigation and drainage, and balanced nutrient applications. Fungicides specifically designed to control dollar spot may also be utilized, in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
By implementing proper turf management techniques and appropriate disease control measures, turfgrass managers can effectively mitigate the detrimental effects of dollar spot and maintain healthy, aesthetically pleasing lawns and sports fields.
The etymology of the term "dollar spot" can be understood by breaking it down into its two components: "dollar" and "spot".
1. "Dollar": The word "dollar" originates from the German word "thaler" or "taler", which was a silver coin used in Europe since the 16th century. The term spread to other regions and languages, including English, where "thaler" became "dollar". The Spanish dollar, known as the "peso de ocho" or "piece of eight", was particularly influential in shaping the dollar as a currency.
2. "Spot": In this context, "spot" refers to a specific area or location. The term likely comes from the idea that when a fungal disease called "dollar spot" affects turfgrass, it causes small circular spots, about the size of a silver dollar, to appear.