How to Fill in Patchy Grass Spots in the Winter

Patchy grass spots during the winter are caused by a host of environmental factors. Grass exposed to cold temperatures and wind turns straw-colored. Water or ice kills off grass blades. Salt damage from driveway runoff harms grass and fungal diseases such as snow molds. To fill in patchy grass spots, gardeners must install sod in these areas. Generally, soil temperatures during the winter are not warm enough or at least 59 degrees Fahrenheit to favor grass seed germination.

Measuring tape
Spray paint
Trowel
Rake
Fertilizer
Sod
Lawn roller

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the size of the sod that you are using. Spray paint the patchy area to the dimensions of the sod piece.
- 2
  Cut through the dead grass with a sharp trowel or rake up the area. Water the patchy grass area to help remove all of the grass roots.
- 3
  Distribute a starter fertilizer in the bare area. Use a starter fertilizer high in phosphorous or one that has a NPK amount such as 16-20-6 at a rate of 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Work the fertilizer into the first 2 to 3 inches of top soil.
- 4
  Water the bare area and the dirt side of the sod. Lay the sod down on the bare area, so that the sides are butting against the surrounding grass.
- 5
  Fill a lawn roller halfway with water. Push a lawn roller over the sodded area to create adequate sod to soil contact. Keep the sod moist for five days to establish a strong root system.

How to Apply Nitrogen to Grass

How to Kill Grass Without Digging

Growing Grass