How to fix yellowing Kikuyu lawn?

bakerche

Hi 

Please help us fix our lawn. 

We planted Kikuyu seed in Jan this year and it grew great. Green and vibrant. No concerns. Suddenly the last few weeks it Is turning yellow and dying. I tried to up the watering as I thought may be due to hot weather and dry soil but doesn't seem to be helping. We tried to airate the ground and brought some fertilizer but stopped when we realised it was unsafe for dogs as we have a golden retriever who loves to play on the grass. This is really making us sad and disappointed. Please give us advice on how we can fix our lawn. 

Thanks 

Chelsea 

EricL

Hello @bakerche 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your lawn.

Your lawn’s yellowing is a common issue, and it can be addressed with some focused care that’s safe for your golden retriever. Since you’ve already increased watering, make sure you’re doing it effectively by watering deeply but less frequently, ideally in the early mornings. 

Overwatering can sometimes cause fungal issues, so check that the soil is moist but not soggy. Improving the soil’s health is another key step. Since you’ve aerated, consider top-dressing the lawn with a thin layer of dog-safe organic compost or lawn soil mix, which will enhance the soil structure and provide nutrients.

Fertilizing can also help, but it's important to choose a dog-safe product like Seasol Lawn & Soil Conditioner or an organic seaweed-based solution available at the store. These products are safe for pets once dried and will strengthen your lawn against stress while promoting healthy growth. 

Yellowing can also result from pests, such as lawn grubs, so check for signs of them by gently lifting a patch of grass to inspect the roots. If you spot grubs, consider using a pet-safe treatment like Eco Neem. Additionally, keep your Kikuyu grass at the right height by mowing it to about 3-4 cm. Longer grass retains moisture better and encourages stronger growth, but avoid cutting it too short, as this can stress the lawn.

While the lawn is recovering, try to reduce traffic by creating a temporary play area for your golden retriever. This will give the grass time to recover without added stress. If the problem persists despite these efforts, testing the soil’s pH might help identify any issues with nutrient absorption. Kits are readily available at the store and can help determine if the soil is too acidic or alkaline. With consistent care, you should see the lawn bounce back over the coming weeks. Let me know if you need more guidance!

Here are some handy step-by-step guides:

• How to detect lawn problems by @Adam_W 
   
• How to repair a lawn by @Adam_W 
   
• Lawn renovation by @homeinmelbourne 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric