Why Is My Lawn Turning Yellow? Common Causes & Fixes

A yellowing lawn can be frustrating for homeowners. Whether due to nutrient deficiencies, heat stress, or lawn diseases, identifying the cause early is essential for restoring your lawn’s health.

1. Common Causes of a Yellow Lawn & Their Fixes

a) Lack of Nutrients (Nitrogen Deficiency)

• Symptoms: Grass appears pale yellow, weak, and slow-growing.
• Solution: Apply a nitrogen-rich lawn fertiliser to restore green colour.

b) Overwatering or Underwatering

• Symptoms: Waterlogged soil leads to yellow patches; dry soil causes straw-like grass.
• Solution: Water deeply but infrequently—about 1 inch per week, early in the morning.

c) Lawn Diseases & Fungal Infections

• Symptoms: Yellow spots or patches, often with brown edges.
• Solution: Apply a fungicide and improve air circulation through aeration.

d) Pet Urine Burns

• Symptoms: Small, concentrated yellow patches with green edges.
• Solution: Water the area immediately after urination and train pets to use designated spots.

e) Soil Compaction

• Symptoms: Grass struggles to grow due to poor root penetration.
• Solution: Aerate your lawn to improve air, water, and nutrient flow.

2. How to Restore a Yellowing Lawn

• Feed Your Lawn: Use a balanced fertiliser with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Improve Drainage & Aeration: Relieve compacted soil to encourage healthy root growth.
• Maintain Proper Watering Habits: Adjust watering based on weather conditions.

A yellowing lawn can be revived with the right care and attention. Identifying the cause and implementing targeted solutions will bring back its lush green appearance.