Lawn Turning Brown
Patches or whole areas of lawn turning yellow or brown, even when it has been watered.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Drought stress during hot, dry weather
- 2Lawn disease such as red thread or fusarium
- 3Chafer grubs or leatherjackets feeding on grass roots
How Urgent Is This?
This is a cosmetic issue. It is not causing damage and can be addressed in your own time.
What Needs to Be Done
A gardener will diagnose the cause, treat any disease or pest issue, and overseed bare patches. They may also aerate, feed, and top-dress to promote recovery.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £68 – £225 | Materials: £5 – £55
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
Generally permitted. Laying a patio or hard surface in the rear garden is permitted development as an improvement within...
DeckingGenerally permitted under Part 1, Class E of the GPDO (treated as an improvement within the curtilage). Decking that doe...
GreenhouseGenerally permitted under Part 1, Class E as an outbuilding for purposes incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling. Th...
How to Prevent This
Water lawns deeply but infrequently during dry spells. Feed in spring and autumn with appropriate lawn fertiliser. Aerate compacted areas annually.
Related Problems
Thick moss spreading across the lawn, crowding out the grass and creating a spongy surface.
Persistent weeds spreading through flower beds, paths, and the lawn, crowding out desirable plants.
A bumpy or undulating lawn with dips, mounds, and hollows that make mowing difficult.
Other Gardener Problems
A hedge that has grown too tall, too wide, or too dense, encroaching on paths, driveways, or neighbouring properties.
Persistent weeds spreading through flower beds, paths, and the lawn, crowding out desirable plants.
Large trees casting heavy shade over the garden, house, or neighbouring properties, reducing natural light.
Thick moss spreading across the lawn, crowding out the grass and creating a spongy surface.