How to Patch Bermuda Grass

Patch Bermuda grass by over-seeding the bare patches and creating a future environment favorable to the growth of Bermuda grass. Bare patches occur on a lawn due to poor soil and environmental conditions. Bermuda grass is one of many lawn grass species that are drought tolerant and can thrive in sandy soil conditions. However, like all grasses, Bermuda grass requires lots of direct sunlight for maximum growth.

Things You'll Need

• Rake
• Bermuda grass seed
• Seed disperser
• Lawn lime
• Shovel
• Fertilizer
• Spreader
• Water
• Trimmers

Instructions

1. Rake the bare patches clear of rocks and organic matter using a flexible, metal rake.

2. Over-seed the bare patches with Bermuda grass seed by hand or using a seed disperser for larger areas. Ensure dense, even distribution throughout the bare patches.

3. Sprinkle 1/10-inch layer of lawn lime over the grass seeds using a small shovel. Lawn lime increases the top soil's pH, providing a more productive top soil environment.

4. Cover the lawn lime and seeds with 1/2-inch of peat moss or clean compost fertilizer using a spreader. Fertilizer provides minerals, nutrients and moisture retention to the top soil.

5. Water the bare patches once daily for 2 weeks or until grass is visible through the fertilizer. Even though Bermuda grass is drought tolerant, initial watering will only increase the growth rate and overall health of the grass.

6. Cut back foliage and bushes that block sunlight to the lawn area using outdoor trimmers. Bermuda grass requires direct sunlight for optimal health.

References

• Colorado State University
• University of Minnesota
• American Lawns