Bare or brown spots in your lawn can be frustrating, but you can easily restore them with the right approach! There are several ways of doing this, but each option depends on your grass type and other factors. Check out some of the tips below to get started.

What kind of grass do you have?

If you don’t already know what kind of grass you have, you should first identify it. Different grass types have distinct appearances, and mixing them can result in a patchy, uneven look. For example, if you have centipede grass, Lawnifi Santee Centipede Seed is an excellent choice for repairs due to its similar look and maintenance to the existing lawn. However, it wouldn’t be a good fit for a St. Augustine lawn because of blade size and shape differences.

Different grass types also have varying care requirements. For instance, if your bermuda grass lawn has bare spots due to shade, opting for a more shade-tolerant grass type will provide better results than replanting bermuda grass that will continue to struggle in those conditions. Moreover, St. Augustine grass, for example, thrives when mowed higher than bermuda grass. Maintenance and care start to become challenging when mixing grass types.

What Causes Bare vs. Brown Spots?

The second most important thing you should do is figure out what’s causing the bare or brown spots. If you purchase more grass, whether it’s sod, plugs, or seed, and the bare spots were caused by a disease that hasn’t been remedied, the new grass will just get damaged and serve as a waste of money and time.
Bare spots are areas where the grass isn’t growing at all, while brown spots are areas where the grass is discolored but still present. There are multiple causes for these spots, including:

• Foot traffic: Constant walking or playing on the lawn can compact the soil, preventing grass from growing properly. If this is the cause, aerating the soil and redirecting foot traffic can help prevent further damage and allow new grass to establish.
• Insects: Pests like chinch bugs or grubworms can cause significant damage. If insects are the culprit, treating the lawn with appropriate insecticides before planting new grass is necessary to avoid repeated damage. Consider performing a soap flush test to see if insects are an issue.
• Disease: Fungal infections can create irregular brown patches with distinct shapes. If a disease is causing the damage, applying fungicides and improving lawn care practices, such as proper watering and mowing, can help control the spread and prevent new grass from being affected.
• Environmental stressors: Drought, excessive shade, and extreme heat can all stress the grass, leading to bare or brown spots. Identifying and mitigating these stressors, such as adjusting watering schedules, improving soil quality, or selecting shade-tolerant grass types, can help ensure new grass can thrive.

Is there a problem with your soil?

A soil analysis is a vital step in diagnosing lawn problems. It helps identify nutrient deficiencies and soil pH levels, guiding you in selecting the right fertilizers and soil amendments. By addressing the specific needs of your soil, you can create a healthier environment for both your new and previously existing grass to grow and thrive.

How much do you want to spend on repairs?

Your budget can influence whether you choose sod, plugs, or seed to repair your lawn:

• Sod: This is the most expensive option but provides immediate results. It’s ideal for large areas that need quick coverage.
• Plugs: These are more cost-effective and suitable for small areas but take longer to fill in.
• Seed: The most budget-friendly option, seed is perfect for overseeding large areas as well as filling in smaller ones.

How big are the bare or damaged spots?

The size of the damaged area also determines the best repair method:

• Large areas: For extensive damage, consider using sod or overseeding with seed to cover the area quickly and effectively.
• Small areas: Plugs or seed can be used to fill in smaller bare or brown spots, although they will take some time to establish fully.

Evaluating your patience and time.

Consider how much time you can invest in the repair process:

• Sod: Provides instant results, making it ideal if you need a quick fix.
• Plugs: Require patience as they take time to fill in the bare spots. If you are in the market for plugs, visit our sister company, www.samsonbotanicals.com.
• Seed: Takes a few weeks to establish, but Lawnifi Santee Centipede Seed, with its fertilizer coating, can speed up this process.