If you have a lawn with different types of grass, the best way to fix it is first to determine what type of grass you want to keep and what type(s) you want to remove. For that reason, you’ll first need to identify all the grass types you have in your lawn.
You can do it yourself by examining your lawn or by taking a sample of each grass type to a local nursery or gardening center and having it identified by a professional. Then you can start the process of removing undesired grass types from your lawn.
In this article, we’ll discuss a step-by-step approach that you can use to fix your lawn with different types of grasses to give it an ideal, uniform look.
Why My Lawn Has Different Types of Grass
There are a few reasons why your lawn may have different types of grass growing in it. One possible reason is that the grass seeds were mixed together before planting, either intentionally or accidentally.
This can also happen if grass seed from a previous lawn is left on the ground and mixed with the new grass seed.
Another possible reason is that different types of grasses have spread from neighboring lawns through fences. Additionally, the same problem can occur if you have a lawn mower that has previously been used on a few different lawns.
What is the Best Time to Remove Unwanted Grasses from the Lawn?
The best time to remove unwanted grasses from your lawn depends on the types of grass you are dealing with and the climate in your area. Generally, the best time to remove unwanted grass is during the dormant season, when the grass is not actively growing.
For cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and turf-type tall fescue, the dormant season typically starts in late fall or early winter. For warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda grass and zoysia, the dormant season occurs during the late winter or early spring.
During the dormant season, both cool and warm season grass types will be less vigorous and easier to remove, and you’ll have greater chances of success in removing unwanted grasses and lawn weeds.
You can use various methods to remove unwanted grasses from your lawn, such as pulling the grasses by hand, using a weed killer, or applying a grass-specific herbicide.
Fixing the Lawn with Different Types of Grass: Step-by-Step Method
If you have a lawn with different types of grass, the best way to fix it is to remove the grass that you don’t want and then reseed the area with desirable grass.
This process can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, but you can complete it effectively using the below steps.
Step 1: Identify the Types of Grass You Have
To determine the types of grasses in your lawn, you will need to closely examine the grass blades and other characteristics of the grass plants.
Here are some steps you can follow:
- Look at the color of the grass blades. Various types of grass have different shades of green, ranging from light to dark. This can be a good starting point for identifying the types of grasses in your lawn.
- Examine the texture of the grass blades. Some grasses have fine, delicate blades, while others have thicker, coarser blades. This can be another useful clue for identifying the types of grasses in your lawn.
- Take note of the growth habit of the grass plants. Some grasses grow in a dense, upright manner, while others have a more open, sprawling growth habit. This can help you to distinguish between different types of grasses.
- Check the shape of the grass blades. Some grasses have narrow blades, while others have wider blades. The shape of the grass blades can be a useful characteristic for identifying the types of grasses in your lawn.
- Look for other distinctive features of the grass plants. Some grasses have distinctive flowering heads, while others have unique seed heads that can help you to identify them.
Once you have closely examined the grass plants in your lawn, you can compare your observations to descriptions of different types of grasses to determine the types of grasses in your lawn.
Alternatively, you can bring a sample of the grass to your local extension office for identification.
Important Note: Keep in mind that your lawn can also have grass-like, broadleaf, or grassy weeds mixed with different grass types, and you’ll also need to remove them.
Step 2: Remove Unwanted Grass
Once you have determined all the grass types, you have in your yard, and the next step is to determine the type of grass that you want to keep. You can then begin the process of removing the grass that you don't want.
This can be done manually by using a shovel or other gardening tool to dig up the unwanted grass. However, if you have unwanted grass covering a large area, you’ll need to use an herbicide, as removing it manually will take a whole lot of time.
If you have one or two unwanted grass species, you can use a selective herbicide to eliminate them. Whereas using a non-selective herbicide will be a wise option if you have several unwanted grass species.
We recommend you use a weed wand or paintbrush to apply the herbicide to the blades of unwanted grasses and weeds. Be extra careful not to apply/spill the product on the grass you want as it’ll kill everything it comes in contact with.
In addition, wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and a face mask before performing this step to ensure your protection.
Depending on the product, the herbicide will take one to four weeks to kill unwanted grasses. After that, you can use a rake to remove as much of the dead grass as possible and flatten the soil surface.
Step 3: Reseed the Empty Patches
After the unwanted grass has been removed, you can reseed the area with the type of grass that you want. This can be done by spreading grass seed over the area and then covering it with a thin layer of nutrient-rich soil.
It is important to regularly water the newly seeded area and provide it with the necessary nutrients to encourage healthy grass growth. Once the new grass has begun to grow, it is important to maintain it properly to ensure that it remains healthy and free of weeds.
This can be done by mowing the grass regularly and providing it with the necessary water and nutrients. Additionally, it may be necessary to use a lawn aerator to help the grass roots take hold and grow properly.
Step 4: Use Fertilizer
The best time to apply fertilizer to your lawn depends on the type of grass you’re growing and the climate of the area you live in.
Generally, you should apply fertilizer on your lawn when the grass begins to break dormancy. It’ll help your lawn grass to establish a strong root system and prepare for the upcoming growing season.
Before applying fertilizer, it is important to test the soil to determine its nutrient content and pH level. This will help you determine the type and amount of fertilizer best for your lawn.
You should also carefully read and follow the instructions on the fertilizer label, as applying too much fertilizer can damage your grass and harm the environment.
Tips to Maintain a Uniform Lawn After Fertilization
After applying fertilizer to your lawn, you can do a few things to help the fertilizer work effectively and support healthy growth in your grass. Here are some tips you can follow.
Water the Lawn Thoroughly
After applying fertilizer, it is important to water the lawn thoroughly to help the fertilizer to dissolve and be absorbed by the plant roots. This will also help to prevent the fertilizer from drying out and blowing away.
Avoid Mowing the Lawn Immediately
After applying fertilizer, it is best to avoid mowing the lawn for a few days to allow the grass to absorb the fertilizer and use it for growth. This will also prevent the clippings from covering the fertilizer and blocking its access to the soil.
Monitor the Grass Growth
It’s a good idea to monitor the growth and appearance of the grass to make sure it is responding well to the fertilizer after applying fertilizer. Look for signs of healthy growth, such as strong, green blades, and avoid over-watering or over-fertilizing, which can cause problems.
Adjust the watering and mowing schedule
After applying fertilizer, you may need to adjust your watering and mowing schedule to support the growth of your grass. Water the lawn deeply and regularly, and mow the grass at the right height and frequency to promote healthy growth.
Following these steps can help your lawn benefit from the fertilizer and maintain a healthy, attractive appearance.
Final Words
Fixing a lawn with different types of grass can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. But it is worth the effort to have a healthy, attractive lawn.
Make sure that you choose the grass species for your lawn that’s suitable for the climate in your area to create a beautiful lawn that is perfect for your home and your family.
