Landscaping Ideas for Where Grass Won't Grow

Seeding, sprinkling, watering, fertilizing—you’ve tried everything to remedy that trouble spot in your lawn. But the grass just won’t grow there!

There are a few reasons why grass won’t sprout in a specific area of your lawn but don’t fret! With a little creativity, you can spruce up that bare area.

What to Do with Areas of Yard that Won’t Grow Grass

Why won’t my grass grow?

Grass needs ample sunlight, good soil and adequate water to thrive. Even if you water your lawn regularly, another problem could be holding it back.

• Grass needs about five or six hours of direct sunlight every day. So, shady spots below your trees or on the side of your home aren’t a good environment for grass growth.
• Soil in areas with heavy foot traffic can become compacted, which stunts grass growth.
• Sometimes a deeper soil problem lies below the surface. A lack of essential nutrients, like nitrogen or phosphorus, can limit grass growth. Or, excess deicing salts used on nearby sidewalks might be the problem.
• If you’d prefer to remedy your grass (rather than give up on it), try to fix these problems.
  
  

Landscaping ideas without grass

You might not be able to grow grass in a certain area, but you can make up for it with plants or even a patio.

Instead of just leaving a bare spot in your yard, try one of these landscaping ideas:

• Lay bricks, wood or cement over the area to make a patio.
• Swap in artificial turf where grass won’t grow.
• Add woodchip mulch, particularly in grassless areas under trees, for a cleaner look.
• Create a small garden with flowers or shrubs. Perennials are an easy, low-maintenance option.
• Cover the area with rocks or pebbles.
  
  

Want to save your grass? Have an expert give you the advice you crave in a free consultation.