Have you ever thought, “Why is my grass not growing?” It’s a common gripe in the Cincinnati area.
There are several reasons why your grass won’t grow. Chances are these are the same reasons that will explain why your grass is not thick or isn’t green enough. Grass needs the right conditions for it to grow and look like a green carpet. Many homeowners do not understand all of the factors that cause grass to become a lush and beautiful part of the landscape. Some of these are visible problems such as disease or grass that is being cut too short. Other problems may not have a visible cause, but will manifest symptoms that are strong indications of a specific problem.
Landscaping Tips To Make Your Grass Grow
We have identified 6 reasons that are the most likely causes of grass not growing.
- Lack of water will stunt the growth of grass and cause it to become brown. If water deprivation is prolonged, then the grass will begin to die. Shallow watering can also be a problem. Most lawns need 1 to 1.5 inches of water each week. With less than this 1 to 1.5 inches, the grass can become dehydrated. To conserve the water it has to survive, the water will react in self-defense, and cease to grow longer.
- Watering during the night can cause fungus to grow in the grass. Fungus can take over a yard. This watering after sunset may be good for worms and snails, but it is also good for all manner of fu Watering should be done between 5AM and 9AM during the summer.
- The proper fertilizer is not used (or fertilizer is used infrequently). A lack of phosphorus or nitrogen can inhibit grass growth. Too much nitrogen can harm the grass. There is a fertilizer formulated for every type of grass and soil. A professional landscaping company can recommend the proper fertilizer, the application rate, and the frequency for your grass and soil. Keep in mind that too much of the wrong type of fertilizer can be harmful to your grass. Often the key is to just release enough of the fertilizer to stimulate growth, and this amount can be difficult to gauge.
- Cutting the grass too short or cutting it with a dull blade can send the roots into shock, which can inhibit growth and thin out the grass over time. Leave 70 percent of the blades with each mowing. Always use a sharp blade. Scalped grass – that is, grass which is cut too short — will allow weeds to grow, and the grass will not grow back for a month. You may think you are saving yourself time by giving your grass a buzzcut, but it can let the weeds take over, and harm the existing grass.
- Compacted soil that inhibits nutrients including water from reaching the roots will inhibit the growth of grass. This problem can be eliminated by regular aeration. Getting sunlight and air down into the roots is absolutely crucial. If you are covering a significant amount of the grass – say, with an above-ground pool or a tent – then there is a large chance that you are killing the grass roots below.
- The soil pH may be out of balance. The pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Grass prefers a slightly acidic soil, and this level keeps essential nutrients readily available.
Tree Images of Cincinnati can answer your questions about all of the aspects of good grass growth – we can also look at a small patch of problem grass and possibly determine the cause. In addition, we can tell you how to get your soil tested to determine if amendments are needed. Overall, your grass can grow again with a little help and attention.
