NJ. There are some random yellow spots around the yard where my dog peed I’m guessing. I’d like to fix those spots while I’m fixing some other dirt patches.
Do I need to tear out that grass before I plant new seed? Doesn’t seem like the seed will actually reach the soil and do anything if I don’t. How so I supposed to do that then? By hand or is there some tool? Any alternative fixes? I have a 2/5 acre backyard, there are random spots throughout the whole yard, not just one area.
by rightboom
10 Comments
Generic advice for grass and dogs:
– Mow high for your grass type (this is most important. 3.5-4 inches for cool season, warm season depends on species)
– water deep and infrequently. Do not water every day.
– check and correct soil pH
– keep it moderately fertilized
– for cool season, fall overseed with multiple different varieties
– consider also overseeding with clover. I DON’T recommend a clover-only lawn… But clover mixed with grass can be very resilient.
– consider blocking off areas that are severely damaged, to give grass time to recover (or new seed to become established)
– in the winter, throw down a bunch of straw over high traffic areas (or put up temporary fencing, especially if you seeded in the fall). Rake it/mow it up in the spring.
– Core aerate and immediately spread about a half inch of sand and organic matter. For example, 50/50 sand and compost. This will help alleviate compaction and encourage drainage (which minimizes urine damage).
– yearly light gypsum applications (5-10lbs per 1,000 sqft) may **slightly** help prevent future urine damage by acting as a mild chemical buffer. Emphasis on the words may, slightly, and mild.
– For cool season zones, checkout the [Cool Season Starter Guide](https://www.reddit.com/r/lawncare/s/FetSGi0hFi) by u/nilesandstuff
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/lawncare) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Check out the [Cool Season Starter Guide](https://www.reddit.com/r/lawncare/s/FetSGi0hFi).
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/lawncare) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Well depends what kinda grass you have
You’re right, you want seed hitting soil. If it’s just a few places, just take a metal garden rake or something and get some of the dead stuff out of the way and rough the soil up a little. Doesn’t have to be perfect, but the dead grass will get in the way. If you want to go the extra step grab a bag of top soil and a bag of compost and toss a some soil down before you hit it with the seed, and a little bit of compost on top, then water water water.
The spots will keep coming back where your dog pees though. You could train them to pee in a designated spot, or rinse the grass with a hose after they pee.
[removed]
Just rake, seed, soil, and water.
I rake, compost, seed, and then do top soil. Do it every year where I have spots dry up. I like letting the nutrients from compost hit the existing soil. Not saying it’s the right way, but I have had success.
No just loosen it up a little and seed/soil
If you did nothing it would likely fill in on its own.
Nearby grass will spread.