Question:
Why is my grass not doing well?
Yellow Lawn
Yellowing is often a sign of a condition known as chlorosis. Iron is a necessary nutrient used by the plant in the formation of chlorophyll, which of course is needed for photosynthesis in plants. Certain soil conditions, such as improper soil pH and/or the presence of high phosphate levels, can cause elemental iron to be locked up in compounds the plant cannot take up and use. Since the plant can't get the iron it needs, it can't form chlorophyll and photosynthesize properly, resulting in the yellowed appearance. This can be corrected in some cases by applying chelated iron to the soil. It may also be corrected by applying elemental sulfur, which will reduce soil pH and release iron.
Yellow Centipede
Centipede has a lighter green color that is very different than either Bermuda or St. Augustine, both of which show a darker green hue that many homeowners yearn for. Unhappy homeowners often try to "push" Centipede to put out greener growth through the use of high Nitrogen fertilizers. Don't do it. The grass will green up, but the lush new growth will be irresistable to lawn pests and only lead to thatch formation down the road. Instead of trying to push your grass with too much Nitrogen, try applying some Iron instead. The grass will green up very nicely, but you won't have the pest or drought stress problems. In my experience, 95% of the disease, insect and drought stress problems in Centipede lawns are caused by over-fertilization. Even using the wrong fertilizer can cause problems in Centipede. Whereas most grasses do well using complete fertilizers (like 16-4-8 or sometimes 12-4-8), Centipede needs only trace amounts of Phosphorous. Thus, fertilizer companies have developed a 15-0-15 analysis that contains 2% or 3% Iron. Look for it. Apply it once, maybe twice a year at 7 lbs per 1,000 square feet of turf.
Don't Add Lime Without a Soil Analysis!
Many lawn care tip sheets tell you to add lime once a year. If your grass is actively growing and responding to fertilizer applications, you don't need to add anything at all. Lime raises soil pH. In some soil conditions, raising pH can cause Iron deficiency problems. With some types of grass, adding lime to your lawn can serious damage or even kill it. Unless you have had your soil analyzed and the results recommend the addition of lime, don't do it.
Lawn Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DOīs and DONTīs of Lawn Care?
What kind of grass should I plant?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
How do I get stripes like ballparks do?
What kind of weed is this? How do I get rid of it?
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Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
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Why is my grass not doing well?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
How can I put a waterfall in my rock garden?
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Can I analyze the soil with a kit?
When is the best time to plant trees?
Why should I mulch my clippings?
Which existing plants should I keep?
Can my property be too wet for a good lawn?
Is it best to plant trees before or after shrubs?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
What are guidelines for where to plant a tree?
What seed should I plant for the best results?
Where do I start to prune a garden?
What does too much pruning do?
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Whatīs the best way to prune spruce trees?
Where can I get a soil analysis?
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What material should I use for my pond?
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Should I build a large or small pool?
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What is next after planting cedars for a hedge?
