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Patches of Brown Grass in Yard #772554

Asked September 21, 2021, 2:30 PM EDT

Due to 2021 drought conditions, we have large areas in our yard that are brown and have not returned to green conditions. We didn't water during the drought figuring that the lawn will come back after the right amount of moisture. Since we have had a considerable amount of rain within the last month, I thought the brown areas would return to green; they have not done so. What sort of treatment can we place on these areas to get the grass to grow back to green conditions? Would it be a good idea to rake up the brown grass, apply top soil and then re-seed? Other suggestions? I would really appreciate some guidance on this issue. Thank you. Ed Shukle

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Early spring brought record-breaking temperatures above 90F and no precipitation.  Mow you grass at a height of 3-4 inches during drought.Water your dormant grass some during prolonged drought.  

It is a little late in the season to be seeding your lawn. Some years it is fine to seed now but other times early frost kills the new seedlings.

https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/water-saving-strategies-

https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/allow-some-browning-lawns-conserve-water

Vigorous hand raking is effective for small patches of grass with little vegetation remaining.  Three to five passes with a commercial aerifier may be needed if the soil is compacted. Reseed with the types of grass seed to match your existing grass and how often you plan to fertilize and mow your yard. Water your grass often when the seed is germinating.  In the future, water your grass 

The following sites will help you care for your yard.

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/lawn-care-calendar

https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/weed/idlist.html

https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/renovating-lawn-quality-and-sustainability

https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/renovating-lawn-quality-and-sustainability

https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/renovating-lawn-quality-and-sustainability#seed

Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied September 21, 2021, 6:17 PM EDT

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