Thin Patchy Lawns
If you are noticing thin, patchy grass, finding out the problem is the MOST important part to finding a solution.
Thin, Patchy Lawns Can Have Many Causes
Thin, patchy grass is usually indicative of a problem. Until you know what’s causing the problem, you won’t be able to successfully overcome it.
Some causes for thin, patchy grass include:
- Compacted or hard soil. If your soil is too hard (compacted), it creates a hostile environment for growing grass. As a result, roots lack air and are not able to access the nutrients they need to grow. In this case, lawn aeration and top dressings with compost or our own Prescription Organic Matter soil amendment are often a big help.
- The lawn has not had been properly watered or mowed. Good cultural practices like proper mowing and lawn watering can go a long way toward preventing thin patchy lawns and bringing them back to health.
- Not enough fertilizer. Lawns need a soil with the proper pH and a balanced composition of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium to do their best. You can find out more about proper fertilization techniques on our Do-It-Yourself Lawn Maintenance page. If you’re in our area, we have a variety of Fertilizer packages to meet your needs.
- A disease or insect problem is occurring. Lawn diseases, or insects like Japanese Beetles and grubs, can create thin, patchy grass.
- Too much shade. Shade problems can also be causing or contributing to your thin, patchy lawn. Shade from trees, structures, and other objects can cause even seed, especially cultivated for shade – to struggle, resulting in thin grass growth, straggly grass, and bare patches.
What to Do About Thin, Patchy Lawns
If you’re within our Twin Cities metro lawn care service area, you can call us for an appointment. A Rainbow licensed lawn care technician will identify the problem and give you THE solution to give your lawn thicker, healthier growth.
Soil testing is recommended as a starting point. We recommend all our new clients have a soil test performed and that current clients have regular soil tests every three or four years.
If you are not within our service area, soil testing is generally available through your local agricultural extensions. Check for one in your area and use the information you find on our website to help guide you to a thicker, greener, healthier lawn.
Challenged by a thin patchy lawn?
