How to revive dying Kikuyu grass

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Kikuyu grass is known for its hardiness, fast growth, and lush green appearance, making it a popular choice for Victorian lawns. However, if your Kikuyu lawn looks patchy, yellow, or dying, it’s a sign that something is wrong. The good news is that reviving Kikuyu grass is possible with the right care and maintenance.

Why is my Kikuyu grass dying?

Kikuyu grass, such as the Eureka VG Premium Kikuyu range we offer at Lilydale, may struggle due to a variety of reasons, including:

Lack of water

Dry conditions can cause Kikuyu grass to turn yellow and become brittle. If your lawn is struggling in the heat, increase deep watering sessions and ensure the soil retains adequate moisture.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of essential nutrients can result in weak, discoloured grass. To maintain a healthy Kikuyu lawn, apply a balanced fertiliser rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at regular intervals.

Compacted soil

Poor aeration can prevent roots from accessing water and nutrients, leading to a weak lawn. Aerate your lawn annually to loosen the soil and improve drainage.

Thatch buildup

Excess thatch can suffocate the lawn and prevent healthy growth. If you notice a thick layer of organic debris, dethatching or scarifying the lawn can help improve air circulation and nutrient absorption.

Pest or disease problems

Lawn grubs, fungi, and other issues can weaken Kikuyu grass. Regularly inspect your lawn for pests, fungal infections, and discolouration, and apply appropriate pest control treatments such as insecticides or fungicides as needed.

Why is my Kikuyu grass patchy?

If your Kikuyu lawn has uneven growth, bare spots, or thinning areas, the causes could be:

• Uneven watering – Some areas may not be receiving enough moisture.
• Pet urine burns – Dog urine can leave brown patches.
• Poor soil health – Depleted or compacted soil can create weak spots.
• Heavy foot traffic – High-use areas can become worn out and struggle to recover.

How to keep Kikuyu grass green and healthy

Ensuring your Kikuyu grass stays vibrant and lush all year round requires proper care. Here’s how to maintain its green and healthy appearance:

Watering Kikuyu grass correctly

Kikuyu is drought-resistant, but it still needs regular watering to stay green.

• Water deeply twice a week during hot months.
• During cooler months in Melbourne, reduce watering but don’t let the lawn dry out completely.
• Use a soaker hose or irrigation system for even moisture distribution.

Fertilise regularly

A healthy Kikuyu lawn needs balanced nutrients to stay green and strong.

Mow at the right height

Maintaining the correct mowing height prevents stress on the grass and promotes a thick, even lawn.

• Keep Kikuyu at 30–50mm for optimal health.
• Avoid mowing too short, as this can cause scalping and weaken the lawn.
• Mow regularly during the growing season, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the blade height at a time.

Aerate and dethatch the Lawn

Compacted soil and excessive thatch can choke Kikuyu roots and prevent healthy growth.

• Aerate the lawn once a year to improve soil drainage and oxygen flow.
• Dethatch when the thatch layer exceeds 12mm thickness.
• Use a scarifier or dethatching rake for best results.

How to revive Kikuyu grass

If your Kikuyu grass is already dying or looking weak, follow these steps to help the seeds spread and bring it back to life.

1. Identify the problem

Before taking action, determine why your Kikuyu grass is suffering. Check for signs of drought, disease, nutrient deficiencies, or soil compaction.

2. Deep watering

If your lawn is dry and yellowing, increase watering frequency and ensure deep soaking to replenish moisture levels. Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause your grass to dry, so it's best to keep it hydrated. 

3. Lawn renovation (top dressing & overseeding)

For patchy areas:

• Rake the area to remove dead grass and loosen soil.
• Apply a thin layer of topsoil or sandy loam.
• Overseed with Kikuyu seeds or runners to encourage regrowth.Water regularly to help new grass establish.

4. Apply the right fertiliser

Fertilising is key in keeping your Kikuyu grass moist and lush. Use a high-nitrogen fertiliser to promote regrowth. If your Kikuyu is turning yellow, apply iron and magnesium supplements.

5. Treat lawn pests and diseases

If your grass has brown patches or weak areas, check for signs of lawn grubs, fungal infections, or insects.

• Use grub control products if pests are found.
• Apply a fungicide if fungal infections are present.
• Improve drainage and reduce watering if fungal growth is excessive.

6. Reduce Traffic in Worn Areas

If high foot traffic is wearing down parts of your lawn:

• Create stepping stones or pathways.
• Reseed damaged areas with Kikuyu runners.
• Avoid walking on recovering grass.

Bringing your Kikuyu lawn back to life

By following these care tips, your Kikuyu lawn can recover and thrive. Regular maintenance, proper watering, fertilisation, and aeration will ensure a lush, green lawn year-round.

If your Kikuyu lawn needs expert care, Lilydale Instant Lawn offers premium Kikuyu turf and expert advice. Whether you need lawn renovation, maintenance tips, or new turf installation in Melbourne, we’re here to help!