How Can I Fix Brown Spots in My Yard?
A lush, green lawn is the pride of many homeowners in Texas- trust us, we know! However, the combination of the hot Texas sun and various other factors can lead to unsightly brown spots appearing on your pristine green yard. So, how can you fix these brown spots to get your lawn back in tip-top shape? We’re going to cover the different ways how to fix brown lawn issues and help you maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn.
Identifying the Cause of Brown Spots in Your Yard
The first step in fixing brown spots in your yard is identifying the cause. Here are some common issues that may be behind the problem:
Drought
In hot, dry regions like Texas, drought is a common cause of brown spots in lawns. If the soil around the affected area is dry and hard, it is likely that your lawn needs more water.
Fungal Disease
Lawn fungus diseases can lead to brown patches in your yard. Look for signs of mold or mushrooms growing around the brown spots, as these are indicators of a fungal problem.
Pet Damage
Urine from dogs (and sometimes cats) contains high levels of nitrogen which can damage grass and cause brown spots. If you have pets, keep an eye on them when they’re out in the yard to determine if they are the source of the problem.
Insect Infestation
Lawn pests such as grubs, chinch bugs, or sod webworms can cause damage that results in brown spots. Check the grass roots and soil to see if any insects are present.
Thatch Buildup
Thatch, a layer of dead grass, roots, and other organic material, can accumulate between the grass and soil. Excessive thatch buildup can lead to shallow root growth, resulting in brown spots.
How to Fix Brown Lawn Problems
Once you’ve determined the cause, it’s time to apply the right solution. Here are some steps you can take to address different issues:
1. Proper Watering
For drought-induced brown spots, make sure your lawn gets enough water. Generally, established lawns require 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Water deeply and infrequently, preferably in the early morning to avoid evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. If you’re not sure how much water your lawn needs, consult a local lawn care expert.
2. Treat Fungal Diseases
To address fungal diseases, remove the affected grass and replace it with new sod. Then, apply a fungicide as directed on the product label. Additionally, ensure proper lawn care practices such as adequate watering, soil aeration, and mowing at the right height to prevent future fungal issues.
3. Address Pet Damage
For pet-related damage, minimize the problem by teaching your pet good bathroom habits and discouraging them from urinating in the same spots. Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down and neutralize existing pet urine. You can also apply lime or a turf builder with nitrogen to help restore the affected area.
4. Control Pests
Insect infestations can be difficult to deal with and require proper insect control measures. If the insects are still in the larval stage, treat your lawn with an insecticide as directed on the product label. For adult pests, use a contact or systemic insecticide before they lay more eggs.
If you’d prefer a professional handle it with pet and human-safe chemicals, get a free quote from us HERE.
5. Reduce Thatch Buildup
Thatch buildup can be addressed with core aeration, which involves removing small plugs of soil from the lawn to reduce compaction and increase the penetration of water and nutrients into the soil. This helps create ideal conditions for healthy root growth that can prevent brown spots.
Taking Care of Your Lawn
By taking the time to identify and address brown spots in your lawn, you can keep it looking healthy and green for years to come. If you’re not sure about how to fix a brown spot problem, we’re more than happy to help you out! Find out more about our service options HERE.
With the right care and attention, your lawn will remain a source of pride for years to come!
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