Regardless of species or variety, grass should have a lush green color. This indicates that it’s healthy and not suffering from any disease or problem that could otherwise hinder its health.
Unfortunately, there are times when you may discover a brown patch of grass in your landscape. Rather than turning a blind eye to brown grass, you should try to diagnose the cause so that you can fix it.
#1) Weeds
Allowing weeds to overtake your lawn may result in patches of green grass. Weeds, like all plants, are classified as either annual, biennial or perennial, depending on their life cycle.
However, all three types of weeds consume moisture and nutrients from the soil. When weeds remain unchecked, they’ll continue to spread while restricting the amount of moisture and nutrients that your grass receives.
#2) Thatch
Another common cause of brown grass is thatch. Some people assume that thatch is a disease, but this isn’t necessarily true. Thatch actually refers to a layer of organic matter that forms between the roots and green blades of the grass.
To see if thatch is affecting your lawn, dig up a 3-inch deep sample of the soil (with the grass). If you see a layer of brown matter between the green blades and the roots, then your lawn is suffering from thatch.
#3) Pet Urine
If you’re a pet owner, perhaps your brown grass is the result of your dog’s or cat’s urine. Pet urine is highly acidic and will leave “scorch” marks on grass. You shouldn’t discourage your pet from doing his business outside, but you should rinse the grass with water so it doesn’t become too acidic.
#4) Fungal Disease
Of course, fungal disease can cause otherwise healthy grass to turn brown and die. Some of the most common fungal diseases include Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium aphanidermatum and Microdochium nivale.
You can prevent fungal disease from taking over your lawn by keeping it clean and well manicured. And if you discover signs of a fungal disease, apply a fungicide to neutralize it and protect your lawn from damage.
#5) Drought
Finally, drought or lack of water can cause brown grass in a landscape. According to DIY Network, most grass needs about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Depending on where you live, as well as the time of year, you may need to use a sprinkler to hydrate your lawn.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
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