How do you revive damaged grass?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.To restore damaged grass, we always begin with a rainback condition. Is it drought, pests, or compaction? Then, go out and examine the grass areas, looking for bare spots, discoloration, and other abnormalities. In my own backyard, our lawn has fully recovered after being badly damaged by grubs, thanks to these methods. Or to summarize the recovery methods, we use core aeration and overseeding.
Soil Restoration
- Core aerate compacted areas improving oxygen and water flow
- Adjust pH with lime if soil test shows acidity below 6.0
- Top-dress with 1/4 inch compost boosting microbial activity
Repair Techniques
- Overseed bare spots using erosion mats for moisture retention
- Apply starter fertilizer high in phosphorus for root development
- Manage thatch exceeding 0.5 inch with vertical mowing
When recovering a lawn or specific areas of it, it is important to water properly and consistently. The most efficient method of doing this is to deep water the soil a minimum of 6 inches every three days. Do not water lightly every day, as shallow watering encourages the growth of shallow roots. Install soil moisture sensors to help limit overwatering of your lawn. By using the methodology suggested above, I successfully recovered many drought-damaged areas within weeks.
After seeding, please apply starter fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Apply starter fertilizer at the rate of 1 pound per 1,000 square feet; this will help root growth. Please avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen, as they promote top growth but do not support root growth. If the grass is slow to regrow, apply starter fertilizer after four weeks. Starter fertilizer is a balanced feeding for recovering grass.
Safeguard newly planted grass during establishment by using temporary barriers, designed to protect grass seedlings from foot traffic. When the grass reaches a height of 4 inches, mow carefully. Set the mower height at the highest setting so that the blade removes as little growth as possible. These practices will help ensure that the tender and new grass survives during the establishment period.
Assess progress and modify care accordingly. Visible improvement expected in 2-3 weeks with full recovery in 6-8 weeks. Proper maintenance is key to preventing recurrence. Consistent care will transform a damaged lawn into a lush green space.
Read the full article: How to Care for Lawn: Beginner's Guide
