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How can I fix this growing dead spot in our lawn? #794270

Asked June 05, 2022, 8:26 AM EDT

We have a dead spot in our front lawn (sunny spot) where grass grew fine in the past, but will not grow, and has been expanding for the past four years. There has not been a chemical or salt spill here. We're concerned it will harm the huge azalea bush in the yard. We've tried removing the top few inches of soil and covering the area with dead leaves and grass clippings as a mulch. We've also tried putting down new grass seed. Sometimes new grass sprouts, but doesn't get established. The rest of the yard is zoiza grass. thanks for any advice you can offer. Should we get a soil test? And if so, what would they test for?

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi Lauren!

A soil test wouldn't hurt and could give you more insight into any possible nutrient deficiencies. You can find more information about soil testing here, including the list of labs that offer it and instructions on preparing the soil samples. You can try again to reseed your lawn, but first remove the thatch (dead grass layer), so the seed can get into the soil. But this is not a guaranteed fix. We see no indication that the lawn issue would harm the azalea. 

In Maryland, we're in a climate transition zone which is not favorable to growing lawn grasses. I actually grew up in Anne Arundel County and all of our yards looked like yours! Spotty grass growth and bare patches, and no matter how hard we tried, the grass just never took off. This could be an opportunity to look into lawn alternatives, especially using our native plants. Check out the case studies with photo examples for inspiration. 

Your yard also looks like it's on a slope and the deep root systems of native plants will help reduce your runoff and erosion. 

Jamie

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