How to Fix Yellowing Grass

Winter Damage

• Winter damage can occur because of a variety of causes. Exposed areas may suffer winter burn and yellowing from cold, dry winter winds. Standing water in spring from snow melt and rain also causes yellowing. Salt damage from ice removal products used nearby also causes yellow grass. Grasses recover from winter burn and water damage gradually on their own, although reseeding the area is sometimes necessary if the grass roots have died. Flush salt burned areas with water to dilute the salt before reseeding so the new grass won't suffer from the salt buildup.

Irrigation Issues

• Too little water, especially during hot drought periods, causes grass to yellow and dieback. Most grass varieties recover on their own when the temperatures cool. Practicing proper watering throughout the spring and summer season minimizes yellowing. Water lawns deeply twice a week so the top four to six inches of soil are thoroughly moistened. Deep watering encourages deep root growth so the grass is better equipped to remain green during dry periods.

Fertilizer Burn

• Over fertilization burns the lawn, causing dead yellow patches to appear. The salts in the fertilizer are also to blame for burn problems. Do not fertilize more often or with more fertilizer than recommended on the bag. Also, avoid fertilizing when the lawn is stressed from water or heat. If fertilizer burn occurs, water the area heavily to flush the excess fertilizer from the soil. Reseed the area after flushing out the fertilizer excess.

Dog Damage

• Dog urination damage results in irregular yellow patches surrounded by a ring of lush green grass. Dog urine contains nitrogen, which in small amount greens up the grass but in the concentrated area burns and kills the grass. Flush the area with water as you would for over-fertilization. Reseeding is usually necessary after the area is flushed.

Fungal Problems

• Some fungal diseases, including rust and patch disease, cause yellowing grass. Proper watering and fertilizing prevents most fungal problems. Mow only when the grass is dry so you don't spread fungal spores throughout the lawn. Some fungal problems require a fungicide to treat but most are controlled by practicing proper grass care. Reseed the area if it looks bare after eradicating the fungal problem.