Patchy lawns have many possible causes, and the fix depends on the diagnosis. Here's how to figure out what's going on and what to do about it.
Common Causes of Bare Spots
- Grubs (check by pulling back a patch — if grubs are present, the grass will pull up like carpet)
- Fungal disease (look for irregular brown patches, often with a darker border)
- Dog urine damage (small, circular, bright green rings with brown centers)
- Compaction (water runs off instead of soaking in)
- Shade (grass that needs sun won't survive under heavy tree cover)
How to Repair Bare Spots
Once you've addressed the cause, prepare the area by raking out dead grass and loosening the soil. Apply topsoil if needed, spread seed appropriate for your grass type and sun exposure, and keep it consistently moist for 2–3 weeks. Most repairs fill in within 4–6 weeks.
For large areas or recurring problems, a professional assessment can identify the root cause and recommend a targeted treatment plan.