Damage from pets

After the snow melts, it’s easy to see what damage has been caused by pets “doing business” in the yard. It’s important to pick up feces that contain bacteria that can remain on the lawn or drain with water runoff into streams and lakes.

The acid in pet urine burns the grass, leaving yellow spots in a lawn. As grass begins to grow, small spots may fill in from the edge toward the center. Larger spots can be treated with gypsum, a granular substance that is available by the bag at hardware or lawn stores.

When applying gypsum, rough up the spot with a cultivating fork or similar tool and sprinkle the gypsum evenly over the spot. The alkalinity of the gypsum neutralizes the acid in the soil.

After time, rough up the spot again, sprinkle with grass seed, step on the seed to firm it in place, and water lightly several times a day until the grass begins to sprout—usually within 10 to 14 days.

If you find you don’t have the time or tools to repair pet-damaged grass—or other after-winter yard maintenance—please contact us. We’re here to help you care for your lawn.