How to Fix a Yellow Lawn

Overview

A lawn that has turned yellow is often the sign of an imbalance in the soil. There are many reasons that a lawn can turn yellow. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of nitrogen in the soil. Pet urine can also leave nitrogen deposits that lead to patchy yellow or brown stains. Additionally, a buildup of thatch can occur if over-fertilizing your lawn kills the enzymes and beneficial microbes that break down grass clippings. Thatch buildup prevents nutrients and water from reaching the soil, and can lead to the lawn becoming 'ingrown' on itself and turning yellow. The key to fixing a yellow lawn is to fix the underlying imbalances in the soil.

Step 1

Check to make sure that your grass is simply not going dormant. Many grass species turn yellow when they go dormant for winter.

Step 2

Determine the underlying issues in your soil by having the soil tested. Many extension offices will test your soil if you provide a sample. A soil test can reveal soil deficiencies as well as diseases that may be affecting your lawn.

Step 3

Water your lawn if it is experiencing nitrogen burn or is yellowing due to drought. Nitrogen leeches out of the soil quickly. So watering your lawn will help to wash the nitrogen away. However, if your lawn is over-watered, water less frequently.

Step 4

Apply a dethatching product that contains enzymes and microbes that break down grass clippings for issues with thatch. Returning microbes and enzymes to the soil will help restore the balance to the soil that prevents thatch problems.

Step 5

Fertilize your lawn and apply a chellated iron product if your soil test shows nitrogen or iron deficiency. Underfertlized soil will cause grass to turn yellow as well.

Step 6

Reseed any areas that have been damaged due to pet stains, foot traffic or scalping with the lawn mower. To reseed your grass, remove dead grass from the lawn. Then break up the soil with a cultivator and work compost into the soil. Apply seeds to the lawn, and rake dirt over them. Cover with mulch and water.

Step 7

Aerate the soil by removing plugs with a soil aerator to help oxygenate compacted areas.