How to Make Grass Spread

Several factors contribute to grass not spreading, such as too much shade, not enough nutrients or a thick thatch layer. Many types of grass, such as Bermuda and Kentucky bluegrass, are unable to spread adequately in shady environments. In fact, areas that receive less than 4 hours of sunlight a day cannot support grass growth, according to Clemson University. In addition, soil lacking nitrogen and a thick thatch layer -- over 1/2 inch -- will not promote thick growing grass. Gardeners must encourage high-density turf to keep weeds from growing and taking advantage of thinning grass.

Masonry trowel
Measuring stick
Lawn mower
Powder dethatcher
Fertilizer
Pruning saw
Shovel

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a 2-inch wedge-shaped piece of turf out of your lawn with a masonry trowel to check your thatch layer. Thatch is the layer of dead and living organic material accumulating between your soil and grass blades. Thick layers means grass roots cannot access enough sun and air for proper growth. Thatch layers over 1/2 inch means that you much dethatch the lawn.
- 2
  Mow your lawn down to 1 1/2 to 2 inches. Push a power dethatcher back and forth across the lawn. Rake up the thatch debris.
- 3
  Fertilize you lawn with 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Use a slow-release nitrogen to contribute nutrients over 6 to 8 weeks. Water the lawn. Repeat your fertilizer application in 6 to 8 weeks.
- 4
  Prune back hanging tree branches that cast too much shade. Cut branches back using a pruning saw to 2 inches outside a tree's branch collar. The branch collar is the swelling that attaches the branch to the tree's trunk.
- 5
  Remove any tall plants casting too much shade on grass by digging up the plants. Press a shovel 2 to 4 inches away from the plants and at least 6 inches deep. Push the entire root system of the plants through the soil. Place plants in compost or throw away.

What Causes Yellow Rings in Zoysia Grass?

Pasture Seeding Methods

Growing Grass