While a yellow lawn can be unsightly, it doesn’t have to be a problem. As is often the case, yellow spots in the yard can usually be solved. There are a number of reasons for a yellow lawn. Pinpointing the cause can quickly alleviate, even eliminate, difficulties with yellowing grass.
Seasonal temperatures can often trigger the yellowing or browning of grass, as it prepares for dormancy. Therefore, it helps to become familiar with the type of lawn grass you have. This makes it easier to determine if and when the grass will enter its dormancy period. Generally, warm-season grasses become dormant in late fall or winter. Cool-season lawns, however, may begin to fade in summer. To help minimize discolor associated with dormancy, overseed with another grass type.
Oftentimes, the soil is responsible for a yellow lawn. Poor soil contributes to a variety of problems, including nutrient deficiencies. It can also make grass more susceptible to pests and diseases. Amending the soil with compost can help alleviate many soil problems, from poor drainage to improper pH levels.
In addition to soil amendment, fertilizer may be necessary for repairing a yellow lawn. The most common factor associated with yellow spots in the lawn is a lack of nutrients, such as nitrogen. Additional nitrogen, applied correctly, can oftentimes restore yellow grass's natural green color. Iron deficiencies can also contribute to a yellow lawn. This can easily be corrected by adding iron supplements to the lawn.
Yellow grass can sometimes be the result of pests or disease. Insect pests, such as grub worm infestations, can play a part in the yellowing of grass or formation of brown patches in lawn areas. Diseases, such as yellow patch, can be detrimental to lawns. The best defense for solving these issues is prevention. In some situations, however, a yellow lawn may require reseeding or resodding to fix the problem.
Other factors that can lead to a yellow lawn can include excessive pet urine, especially from dogs. Flushing the area with water can sometimes help. Yellow spots in the lawn be the result of accidental spills as well, such as with chemicals or gasoline. Unfortunately, there’s little that can be done in these instances other than immediate flooding of the affected area with dish soap and water. Reckless lawn care, like mowing too close, can lead to yellowing grass. This can be fixed by practicing proper lawn care guidelines.
