If you are seeing spots on my lawn, you are not alone. Many Michigan homeowners deal with patchy areas, brown circles, or thin sections throughout the year. Our state’s changing seasons, soil conditions, and moisture levels all influence how grass grows. Because of this, spots on my lawn can appear even when you care for your yard regularly.
Common Reasons for Spots on My Lawn in Michigan
1. Salt Damage After Winter
When snow melts, sidewalk salt washes into the soil. This often creates spots on my lawn, especially near driveways and walkways.
What helps:
Rinse the area with clean water in early spring and gently rake to encourage new growth.
2. Lawn Diseases
Michigan humidity encourages diseases like Dollar Spot and Leaf Spot. These issues often show up as small, round patches that look like spots on my lawn.
Consistent mowing and proper fertilization help reduce the disease spread.
3. Pet Urine
Dog urine contains high nitrogen. Because of this, you may notice dark green rings and brown centers that look like burned circles.
Water the area right after your pet uses it to prevent lasting marks.
4. Grub Damage Beneath the Soil
Grubs are common in Michigan. When they eat grass roots, the lawn becomes weak and patchy.
If you lift a small section and it peels back easily, grubs may be the reason for the spots on my lawn.
5. Dry or Overwatered Areas
Sudden heat waves or rainy weeks can create uneven moisture levels. As a result, some areas dry out while others stay too wet.
6. Soil Compaction
Clay-heavy Michigan soil becomes compacted over time. When this happens, grass cannot receive enough air or nutrients, which leads to thin patches.
7. Fertilizer Burns
Applying too much fertilizer or skipping watering afterward can create small yellow or brown spots.
How to Fix Spots on My Lawn the Right Way
To start, water late in the morning and mow at the correct height. Aerate in fall, overseed thin areas, and follow a seasonal fertilization plan. These steps help reduce future spots on my lawn and create stronger roots.
When You Should Ask for Professional Help
If the spots on my lawn keep returning, a local expert can check the soil, test moisture levels, and look for hidden pests. Michigan lawns change fast from spring to winter, so a professional can spot problems early.
For more lawn care tips, you can read LawnTech’s other article on lawn maintenance inside their Learning Center.
Michigan State University Extension also shares helpful information about common lawn problems for our state.
