Reviving Dead Grass | Will Watering Dead Grass Bring It Back?
The last thing you want to see in your yard is brown or patchy grass. Not only is brown grass unappealing but it can also affect your home’s overall value.
Hence, it’s in your best interest to turn any brown grass into something lively and inviting –– green and healthy grass.
To do so, the first thing you need to know is why your grass is drying, dying, or turning brown. Once you know the cause, you can then take the necessary steps to revive your yard’s grass.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that if your grass is dead, you can no longer use any reviving techniques.
If it’s simply patchy, brown, or dormant, then there’s still hope to beautify your yard without burning a hole in your pocket.
With that said, it’s important that you know the difference between dead and dormant grass, the common causes of why grass becomes brown, and the steps to take to revive this type of grass.
Dead vs. Dormant Grass
Dead grass looks brown and lifeless, which means that the grass has no traces of the color green and it’s no longer in an upright posture.
As mentioned above, dead grass can no longer be revived.
Dormant grass often appears the same as dead grass, which may cause confusion to homeowners.
Grass dormancy is a cool-season protective mechanism to retain nutrients and energy, allowing the grass to withstand the heat of the summer months. Rather than using its energy to stay lush and green, dormant grass’ main priority is its roots, making the grass look as if it’s dead. However, without proper precautions, dormant grass can only live for a few weeks.
Thus, the main difference between dead and dormant grass states is that the latter can be revived.
Common Causes of Brown Grass
Even though brown grass can be revived, it’s important to note that the revival process will depend on the cause of the browning.
For your reference, here are common causes for browning and their respective solutions.
Drought
Drought is the most common reason we see for brown grass throughout the midwest.
This is particularly true if the homeowner refrains from watering their lawns during warmer months, as the grass’ roots still need water to survive. Extended periods of dry, hot weather will completely kill the grass, which can no longer be revived.
Improper Watering
Improper watering techniques are another frequent cause of dead patches of brown grass. Oftentimes, homeowners overestimate (or underestimate) the amount of water required of their specific grass variety and soil type overall.
Every soil type carries with it different densities, which essentially means it will retain more or less water. If you’re putting too much water into dense soil that saturates quickly, you’ll end up overwatering your lawn and killing your grass.
Insects
Pest-infested grass can be easily pulled since the roots are damaged. To prevent pests from damaging your grass, ensure you’re not overwatering or putting too much fertilizer down.
Over-watered grass will only invite pests, particularly grubs.
Steps To Revive Grass
Take note that these steps are also applicable if you’re just targeting some sections of your lawn that are filled with dormant grass.
Clear Any Dead Turf and Debris
In order for the grass to root and germinate properly, ensure that it’s in direct contact with the soil. This means you have to clear any obstacles, such as dead turf and other debris.
Loosen the Soil
To loosen the soil, you can either scratch or dig and loosen up two to three inches of dirt. Doing so will provide your grass with adequate space so it can have its lush color back.
Scatter Grass Seed
It’s important to only use good-quality seed that’s suited for your climate. Once a grass seed is selected, lightly scratch it into the soil –– some parts of the seed must be in the top quarter-inch of the soil, while other parts should be at or near the soil’s surface. For better seed-soil contact, lightly tamp the seed.
Fertilize
Scatter a small amount of lawn fertilizer that’s specifically made for new grass.
Mulch and Water
Once the seeds are planted, lightly top the patched area with some straw or chopped leaves. Doing so will help slow evaporation, improve germination, and discourage any seed washouts. Always remember to properly water the seed –– only wet the top two inches of the soil; don’t overwater.
Will Watering Dead Grass Bring It Back?
A common misconception shared by homeowners is that by watering dead grass, it’ll be brought back to life.
Unfortunately, watering dead grass can actually make the entire situation worse.
For one, watering dead grass will result in rotting roots, as well as making the grass more susceptible to decomposition.
Secondly, watering dead grass will invite the optimal conditions for mold or fungal growth, which could end up spreading to healthier portions of your lawn.
Need Help With Your Lawn? Turn to a Professional Today!
Since brown or dead grass can affect your exterior’s overall look, the best solution is to prevent it from happening in the first place. To ensure your yard is always healthy, turn to a professional. A reliable irrigation installation company like ours can help your grass to thrive!