Industry Insights

Why Your Lawn Keeps Dying – 8 Common Mistakes Most Homeowners Make

Written by Marie Julian | Feb 27, 2025 4:27:29 AM

A lush, green lawn is the pride of many homeowners, but keeping it that way isn’t always straightforward. If your lawn keeps dying despite your best efforts, you might be making some common mistakes without realising it. 

Here’s what you need to know to prevent dead patches, revive struggling grass, and maintain a healthy lawn all year long.

1. Overwatering or Underwatering

Getting the right balance of water is crucial. Many homeowners either overwater, leading to shallow root growth and fungal diseases, or underwater, causing the grass to dry out and die.

Signs of Overwatering:

  • Mushy or soggy soil
  • Fungal growth (such as black or grey patches)
  • Weak, shallow roots

Signs of Underwatering:

  • Grass turning brown or straw-coloured
  • Soil that’s dry and compacted
  • Grass that doesn’t bounce back after being stepped on

2. Poor Soil Quality

Not all soil is created equal. The composition of your soil affects how well it retains water and nutrients. Some areas of your lawn might be suffering due to poor soil conditions, which could be preventing healthy grass growth. If certain patches struggle while others thrive, your soil could be the issue.

(Image source: Unsplash)

3. Cutting Grass Too Short

Scalping your lawn by mowing too short can weaken grass, making it more susceptible to stress and heat damage. Short grass loses moisture faster and struggles to recover. Adjusting your mower height could make a difference in keeping your lawn healthier for longer.

4. Ignoring Lawn Health During Extreme Weather

Hot summers and cold winters put stress on lawns, especially if they aren’t maintained properly before seasonal changes. Summers can be particularly harsh, and without preparation, lawns may struggle to bounce back from extreme heat or drought conditions.

5. Compacted Soil and Lack of Aeration

If your soil is too compacted, water and nutrients won’t reach the roots effectively. This is common in high-traffic areas where the ground becomes hard over time. Without proper aeration, your lawn may not be able to absorb what it needs to thrive.

(Image source: Unsplash)

6. Shade and Sunlight Imbalance

Grass needs sunlight to grow, but too much direct heat or prolonged shade can cause problems. If certain areas of your lawn are struggling more than others, factors like tree cover, fences, or reflective heat from pavement could be affecting its growth.

7. Lawn Pests and Disease

Sometimes, a dying lawn isn’t just about water or soil—it could be pests or disease. Lawn grubs, fungal infections, and other issues can silently destroy grass, leaving behind dead patches. If your lawn deteriorates despite your best efforts, it might be time to check for these hidden threats.

8. Uneven Water Distribution

Not all parts of your lawn receive water evenly. Sprinkler issues, slopes, or different soil compositions can result in some areas getting more water than others. If parts of your lawn are thriving while others dry out, this could be a sign of uneven watering.

If your lawn keeps dying despite your best efforts, it might be time to call in the experts. A professional gardener or landscaper can assess your lawn, identify issues, and provide tailored solutions to bring it back to life. Find a trusted local expert on ServiceSeeking.com.au today and enjoy a lush, green lawn without the guesswork.