June Landscapes – All About the Lawn!

[utparothed]

I have big dogs, mastiffs, who have made big dog paths in my backyard that I'd like to fix if possible.  Is there a way to get grass growing in that area again? 

 

[Sirhornsalot]

In San Antonio my Tiff bermuda lawn is looking like crap and thinning badly. Can I over seed with Texas Bermuda or even a dwarf varity?

I don't think thats your answer. I would apply a fertilizer such as Scott's Turfbuilder and water it well for a couple days. That should get it going again.

That said, if this Bermuda lawn is suffering due to shade, then nothing is really going to help it. Bermuda wants full sun.

I also have to ask, did you apply a grub treatment last month? If not, you may be looking at grub damage.

 

[Sirhornsalot]

I have big dogs, mastiffs, who have made big dog paths in my backyard that I'd like to fix if possible.  Is there a way to get grass growing in that area again? 

Yes there is. Aerate the pathway area a couple times a year and add cotton burr compost topdressing right after, each time.

Aeration is the answer as it allows air in there. In your case, I would make several passes to get it good and "holy." lol

The cotton burr compost is a proven clay softener/loosener, so its also working to help the soil. It is also loaded with nutrients so your grass will react well to it.

 

[oldhorn2]

I don't think thats your answer. I would apply a fertilizer such as Scott's Turfbuilder and water it well for a couple days. That should get it going again.

That said, if this Bermuda lawn is suffering due to shade, then nothing is really going to help it. Bermuda wants full sun.

I also have to ask, did you apply a grub treatment last month? If not, you may be looking at grub damage.

I did not...but we are under very tight water rationing and that is a big problem.....well....that and the dense shade I have all over my yard.....

 

[Sirhornsalot]

I did not...but we are under very tight water rationing and that is a big problem.....well....that and the dense shade I have all over my yard.....

I would apply a granular grub treatment to your lawn and water it in. If the water patrol is a concern, you can time it for your watering day(s). That will help.

The dense shade is a problem. You could have your trees cut back to let in additional sun, but eventually that issue will return as the tree grows.

With that on the table, I'd consider switching my turf grass to Palisades Zoysia. Its a beautiful turf that can grow in full sun or shade and does not have the issues that St Augustine can have.

If you do, I'd wait until fall to follow through when watering and heat are no longer concerns.

 

[utparothed]

Yes there is. Aerate the pathway area a couple times a year and add cotton burr compost topdressing right after, each time.

Aeration is the answer as it allows air in there. In your case, I would make several passes to get it good and "holy." lol

The cotton burr compost is a proven clay softener/loosener, so its also working to help the soil. It is also loaded with nutrients so your grass will react well to it.

Cotton burr compost doesn't sound like anything that Lowe's, Home Depot or the Houston Garden Center carries (especially those that are around me...they suck).  Any suggestions on the type of place that might carry it? 

 

[Sirhornsalot]

I would go to a nursery, a larger one. This is what they do.

Call them first and find out if they carry it.