Exploring Landscape Setups

What's Killing Your Lush Lawn?

3 April 2023 by Tanya Green

A lush, green lawn is a great way to add to the overall aesthetic of your home and yard. But what happens when your lawn doesn't look as lush and green as it used to?

Many things can cause damage to your lawn, some of which are easy to fix, while others may take more effort and dedication. Take a look at some of the common culprits behind a damaged lawn.

Mowing Too Low 

One mistake many homeowners make is cutting their grass too short. While you might think that this will create a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn, it does just the opposite.

When you mow too low, you can damage the roots of your grass and cause it to become weak and stressed. This can lead to a thin, patchy lawn with bald spots that are difficult to repair. This puts unnecessary strain on the grass, leaving it vulnerable to pests and disease. It also increases the risk of sunburn and dehydration, especially in hot weather.

To avoid this issue, make sure you're cutting your grass higher than usual. This will help shade the roots and keep them cool during the warm summer months. A lawn care specialist can advise you on the best mowing height for your grass type or even mow it for you.

Over-Watering or Under-Watering

Another common issue that can damage a lawn is over-watering or under-watering. Too much water can lead to root rot and disease, while insufficient water will cause the grass to dry out and become brittle. Finding the right water balance for your lawn is important to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant.

A good rule of thumb is to water your grass deeply and infrequently. In other words, you should water it deeply enough that the water penetrates several inches into the soil. It also means only watering your lawn when it's truly necessary, such as during periods of extended drought.

You may also need to adjust your watering schedule if the weather changes unexpectedly or if you've added new plants or trees to your yard.

The best way to ensure you're not overwatering or underwatering is by using an automatic watering system with sensors that detect moisture levels in the soil — this will ensure that your lawn gets just enough water without going overboard. Talk to a lawn care expert for more information on these systems.

Pests & Disease

Pests and disease can also wreak havoc on a lush lawn if left unchecked. They can come in the form of pesky insects like grubs, which feed on grass roots and cause lawns to become patchy and bald. Or they can come in the form of fungal spores, which cause discoloration and unsightly spots.

Common signs of pests include holes in the ground, dead patches of grass, or even strange trails made by bugs like moles or voles. If you suspect pests are damaging your lawn, contact a lawn care specialist for assistance as soon as possible.

For diseases (like fungus), treat with fungicide immediately after spotting any telltale signs (discoloration of leaves or spots on blades). The sooner treatment begins, the better!

Contact lawn care services to learn more. 

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