Aerification corrects this condition. Circular spots 8 to 10 inches in diameter may appear in areas frequented by female dogs. Heavy watering helps dilute the salt concentration and corrects this condition. Commercial fertilizers are salts and can burn turfgrass when applied excessively. This condition is most often seen where fertilizers are spilled.
Most lawn grasses require full sunlight.
When a lawn is fertilized, this in turn stimulates growth of shrubs and tress that shade turfgrass. Selective pruning of trees and shrubs helps correct this condition. St. Augustinegrass and tall fescue are somewhat more shade tolerant than other turf types. Clipping grass too closely removes foliage necessary for food manufacturing and exposes stolons to direct sun rays. When this occurs, a brown lesion or burned areas is found on the upper surface of the stolon.