Everyone likes a nice, plush lawn. In fact, maintained and well-designed landscape can increase a home’s value up to 15-20 percent!
If you are wondering why your lawn doesn’t look good as you want, it could be one of these lawn problems. Let’s examine these common problems and how to fix them to get your yard looking its best.
1. Crabgrass Infestation
This pesky week can be a complete eyesore. It typically dies off from the first frost and can actually cause soil erosion.
The best way to attack this weed is to get it before it starts. In the early spring, you should apply either a chemical herbicide or corn gluten meal for a natural alternative. You want to apply when the forsythia begin to bloom.
When mowing season begins, don’t cut your grass too short. This could be an invitation for crabgrass to come back. You should set your tractor or mower deck around 3 1/2 inches for the perfect length.
2. Circular Dead Spots
If you have pets, you may see these dead spots. Dog or cat urine causes these dead spots. These circular patches are usually yellow and surrounded by your dark, green grass.
To minimize these spots, you need to keep your dogs away from that area of the lawn. These dead spots will eventually recover with enough water.
You will need to train your pets to use a spot away from the grass such as a sand bed or surface area you can clean. Use the hose to soak the area immediately after your urinates to dilute it.
3. Grubs
Adult beetles lay eggs in the soil. The grubs hatch and begin to feed on your plants causing irregular dead spots. The grub population can destroy all the roots of your lawn, which means the top will wither and die.
A good way to see if you have a problem is to see if you can pull up the turf with little issue and find c-shaped larvae.
To prevent, apply imidacloprid in late spring to early summer. It is the most effective chemical control. It’s also important to follow proper lawn maintenance with regular watering and fertilization.
4. Thin and Patchy Grass
If you have thin and patchy grass spots, overshadowing may be your problem. This means that bushes and trees are preventing your grass from getting enough sunlight.
You may also have issues with your soil. To improve your soil, add gypsum to your grass to improve the quality.
You should also aerate your grass at least once a year. This prevents your soil from becoming too compacted.
If you choose to add grass seed, make sure you find a type of grass that is compatible with your region’s climate.
5. Bald Spots
If you have bare patches in your yard, you need to act quickly. Weeds will take over these patches.
Start digging up the damaged section and about six inches into the surrounding area. You want to go about two inches deep.
Make sure the soil is level before you add seed and starter fertilizer. Cover your seed with straw to keep the ground wet until the seeds germinate.
You Can Fix Lawn Problems
If you have any of these common lawn problems, you can make your grass lush again. Be sure to follow these tips and maintain your yard with fertilizer and regular water.
Check out our Garden & Patio section for more ideas to make your lawn and landscape stand out this spring and summer.