It is generally more of problem in established stands of turf than in newly seeded areas. It is often difficult to recognize this disease until the plants have been infected for at least 4 years, since the plants are usually scattered throughout the turf. Stripe smut may cause large patches in which most plants are infected. These patches may be up to 12 inches across. The disease can can also affect individual plants scattered throughout the turf.
Affected leaves are pale green or yellow, and stiff, upright and stunted.
Long, yellow-green streaks are produced on the leaves, running lengthwise between the veins. In time, these streaks will become gray, and will then split open to release black, dusty fungal spores. Soon after this, the leaf will turn brown, split, and curl from the tip downward and die. Severely infected plants may die in the heat of the summer, leaving irregular patches in the lawn. Plant disease-free seed and sod.