Localized Dry Spot
Updated July 20, 2026
During the springtime, cases of localized dry spot (LDS) become more frequent. Localized dry spot refers to a specialized condition caused by hydrophobic (water-repellent) soils that develop 1 - 6 inches underneath the turf surface.
The dry soils develop due to the production of waxy materials and/or fungal mycelia which coat sand particles and make them water repellent. The waxy, organic materials (thought to be related to humic and fulvic acids) are believed to come from a variety of sources…