The 5 Most Common Lawn Problems & How to Fix Them

A lush, green lawn enhances your home's curb appeal and provides the perfect outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. However, achieving and maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t always straightforward. Many homeowners face common lawn issues that can leave their grass looking patchy, dry, or unhealthy.

In this guide, we’ll explore five of the most common lawn problems and provide practical solutions to help you restore and maintain a thriving lawn all year round.

1️⃣ Problem: Brown Patches & Dry Spots

Causes:

🔹 Inconsistent watering – Shallow or infrequent watering can cause areas of your lawn to dry out.🔹 Soil compaction – Hard, compacted soil prevents water and nutrients from reaching grass roots.🔹 Nutrient deficiency – Lack of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium weakens grass.🔹 Thatch build-up – A thick layer of organic debris can suffocate grass and prevent water absorption.

How to Fix It:

✅ Water deeply but less frequently (2-3 times per week) to encourage deep root growth.✅ Aerate compacted soil to improve oxygen, water, and nutrient absorption.✅ Apply a balanced lawn fertiliser (such as Scotts Lawn Builder or Seasol Lawn Fertiliser) to replenish nutrients.✅ Dethatch if necessary – Remove excess thatch to prevent suffocation.✅ Use a soil wetter (Seasol Super Soil Wetter) to help dry spots absorb moisture more effectively.

Prevention:

• Maintain a consistent watering schedule, adjusting based on season and weather conditions.

• Aerate your lawn once per year to prevent compaction and enhance growth.

• Fertilise regularly in spring and autumn to maintain soil health.

2️⃣ Problem: Weeds Taking Over the Lawn

Causes:

🔹 Weak or thin grass – A sparse lawn provides space for weeds to grow.🔹 Overwatering or underwatering – Weeds thrive in both excessively wet and dry conditions.🔹 Lack of regular maintenance – Infrequent mowing and neglect can allow weeds to spread.

How to Fix It:

✅ Manually remove weeds by pulling them out at the root before they spread.✅ Use a selective herbicide that targets weeds without harming grass (e.g., Yates Bindii & Clover Killer).✅ Fertilise and overseed thin areas to encourage dense grass growth, making it harder for weeds to establish.✅ Mow regularly at the correct height – taller grass shades out weed seeds and prevents germination.

Prevention:

• Maintain a thick, healthy lawn – a dense lawn naturally prevents weed growth.

• Use a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring to stop weed seeds from germinating.

• Avoid scalping the lawn when mowing, as short grass allows weeds to thrive.

3️⃣ Problem: Patchy or Uneven Lawn Growth

Causes:

🔹 Uneven soil quality – Some areas may lack nutrients or have poor drainage.🔹 Shade issues – Certain grass types struggle in shaded areas.🔹 Heavy foot traffic – Repeated walking over specific areas can compact soil and damage grass.🔹 Pests or disease – Some fungal infections or pests can cause thinning patches.

How to Fix It:

✅ Aerate compacted areas to loosen soil and improve root growth.✅ Apply topdressing (sandy loam or organic compost) to even out soil levels and enhance grass growth.✅ Overseed patchy areas with a suitable grass variety (e.g., Buffalo grass for shade tolerance).✅ Use fertiliser to encourage uniform growth and correct any soil deficiencies.✅ Redirect foot traffic or install stepping stones in high-traffic areas to reduce lawn wear.

Prevention:

• Choose the right grass variety for your lawn's sun exposure.

• Mow, fertilise, and water evenly to promote consistent growth.

• Rotate play or seating areas to prevent overuse of certain spots.

4️⃣ Problem: Lawn Pests & Insect Damage

Causes:

🔹 Common lawn pests such as grubs, armyworms, and black beetles feed on grass roots, causing weak patches.🔹 Overwatering attracts insects like lawn grubs and promotes fungal growth.🔹 Unhealthy or stressed lawns are more vulnerable to insect infestations.

How to Fix It:

✅ Inspect for pests – Look for small brown patches that lift up easily (a sign of root damage).✅ Apply a targeted lawn insecticide (e.g., Yates Grub Kill & Protect) to eliminate harmful pests.✅ Encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects to help control pest populations.✅ Avoid excessive fertiliser use, as too much nitrogen can attract insects.✅ Mow at the correct height – Taller grass provides better resistance to pest damage.

Prevention:

• Regularly inspect your lawn for early signs of pest activity.

• Avoid overwatering, as damp conditions attract lawn grubs and beetles.

• Use a balanced fertiliser to strengthen grass against insect stress.

5️⃣ Problem: Yellow or Faded Grass

Causes:

🔹 Iron or nitrogen deficiency – Lack of essential nutrients can cause discoloration.🔹 Over-fertilising or using the wrong fertiliser – Can burn grass and cause yellowing.🔹 Soil pH imbalance – Acidic or alkaline soil prevents grass from absorbing nutrients properly.🔹 Fungal diseases – Some lawn fungi cause yellowing and thinning of grass.

How to Fix It:

✅ Apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser (e.g., Scotts Lawn Builder) to promote green, healthy growth.✅ Use an iron supplement (e.g., Lawn Solutions Iron Chelate) if grass appears pale or faded.✅ Test soil pH – Grass thrives in a pH of 6.0–7.0; adjust with lime (for acidic soil) or sulphur (for alkaline soil).✅ Ensure proper watering – Both overwatering and underwatering can cause yellowing.✅ Apply a fungicide if you suspect fungal disease (e.g., Yates Mancozeb Plus).

Prevention:

• Fertilise appropriately, following recommended application rates.

• Water correctly – Too much or too little can cause stress.

• Monitor and maintain proper soil health for balanced nutrients.

Final Thoughts: A Healthy Lawn Starts with Consistent Care

Many common lawn problems can be prevented or fixed with the right maintenance routine. By understanding the causes of these issues and taking proactive steps, you can keep your lawn looking vibrant all year round.

✅ Quick Lawn Care Recap:

✔ Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth.✔ Fertilise seasonally for sustained nutrient supply.✔ Aerate compacted soil annually to improve oxygen and water absorption.✔ Mow at the correct height to prevent stress and weed invasion.✔ Treat weeds, pests, and fungal diseases before they spread.

Need help maintaining your lawn? Turf Brothers offers professional lawn care, aeration, weed control, and garden clean-ups to keep your lawn looking its best.

📞 Get a FREE quote today! Contact us now and let’s transform your lawn into the best one in the neighbourhood! 🌿✨