There are several reasons why your grass may be brown or yellow:
- Lack of water: If your grass is not getting enough water, it can turn brown or yellow. Make sure to water your lawn deeply and infrequently, and avoid watering during the hottest part of the day.
- Soil conditions: Poor soil conditions, such as compacted soil or low fertility, can cause grass to turn brown or yellow. Consider aerating your lawn or adding fertilizer to improve soil health.
- Heat stress: Grass can become stressed by excessive heat and turn brown or yellow. Watering deeply and infrequently, as well as mowing at a higher height, can help reduce heat stress.
- Disease: Certain diseases, such as brown patch or dollar spot, can cause grass to turn brown or yellow. Look for signs of disease, such as circular patches of dead grass, and treat as necessary with fungicides.
- Insect damage: Insects such as grubs or chinch bugs can damage grass roots and cause the grass to turn brown or yellow. Look for signs of insect activity, such as small holes in the lawn, and treat as necessary with insecticides.
- Over-fertilization: Applying too much fertilizer can cause grass to turn brown or yellow. Be sure to follow recommended application rates and avoid applying fertilizer during periods of drought or heat stress.
- Dormancy: During periods of drought or extreme heat, grass may enter a dormant state and turn brown or yellow. This is a natural response to stress and the grass will typically recover once conditions improve.
Overall, identifying the cause of brown or yellow grass requires careful observation and analysis of your lawn’s specific conditions. By taking steps to address the underlying issue, such as improving watering practices, aerating or fertilizing the soil, or treating for disease or insect damage, you can help restore the health and appearance of your grass.