Waterlogged Lawns & What to Do About Them
It’s been an incredibly stormy few weeks here in North Mississippi, and you probably see a lot of standing water when you look out over your yard.
That’s no good.
What’s happening to my lawn?
Even though your grass is brown and semi-dormant, it’s still a living, growing plant. You may not be able to tell, but your lawn’s root system grows and expands a lot during this time of year. That root system needs oxygen to survive. Water-logged soil makes oxygen exchange more difficult—it’s not so different from a person being held under water.
If temperatures dip into the low twenties or below, it could further stress your grass. Lots of rain plus frigid temperatures is a one-two punch to your grass.
Some weeds thrive in water-saturated conditions. Heavy and frequent rain plays a big role in what types of weeds pop up and how fast they grow. Don’t be surprised if you see more weeds popping up in a few weeks.
Wet, soft soil doesn’t anchor tree roots very well, and when spring winds come into play, it could lead to disaster. Do you have an older tree in your yard, or a tree leaning over (or toward) your home? Now may be the time to contact a tree surgeon for advice.
Finally, it’s never a good idea to park your car on your grass, but it’s especially damaging after a heavy rain. Not only do your tires leave ruts, but they compact the soil, making it even more difficult for your grass to get the oxygen it desperately needs to thrive.
How do I keep my lawn from drowning?
The silver lining of so much rain is that standing water can highlight problem areas of your yard. It can help you prioritize what adjustments to make in order to achieve your best lawn when spring weather finally comes around.
Take a walk around your yard. Are your flower beds holding water? If so, you may lose some shrubs, or the ground may become so saturated that water could seep under your house, taxing its foundation.
Areas of your yard that hold water will become thinner and produce more weeds. You’ll need to consult a professional on how to fix this drainage issue. While LPS doesn’t offer drainage services, we’ll be happy to consult with you and help you find a reputable contractor.
Your grass will break dormancy soon, making this an excellent time for aeration. The aeration process will help fight the damage from so much rain and compaction by allowing your grass to better access the oxygen it needs to grow. LPS can help with that. If you haven’t aerated your lawn in the last year or two, you should definitely consider lawn aeration this year. Reach out through our contact page to set up your free assessment.
Grass is a resilient plant. Your lawn wants to thrive and maintain that deep green look that’s so appealing and enjoyable. These tips will give your yard a leg up, and by spring, your efforts will have made a world of difference.
