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Lawn in Distress/Don't want Chemical Treatments #927590

Asked April 05, 2026, 10:40 PM EDT

My mom's Ohio home is having some lawn trouble. In the past year there have been multiple city projects that dug up and reseeded in her yard. Now all the reseeded grass appears to have died. She has also opted out of chemical treatment of the lawn for at least 5 years. The grass is patchy and other species, some that looks like a weed tree, are appearing in the lawn. I'm all for her avoiding strong chemicals, especially with her dog and my young babies playing in the lawn. But how can she revitalize her grass organically or better yet, chemical free? Would de-thatching really make a big difference. And reseeding? Then after that, how would she maintain the yard? Thank you for any information here.

Butler County Ohio

Expert Response

Dear Amanda and Lynn,

 I can see you have a real problem with the grass where the city did their projects. One of the first concerns is that the disturbed soil, when replaced, might not have all been topsoil. Sometimes not all the topsoil gets back on top when filling in projects. I might su ggest doing a soil test before you begin the process of renovating your lawn. Here is information on how to go about getting a soil test. Most county extension offices have soil test kits available for a nominal fee.

Soil Testing for Horticultural Needs | Ohioline

After preparing the soil, selecting the new grass seed appropriate for the location is important. Here is information on selecting the proper seed for the area. 

Lawn Grass Cultivar Selection | Ohioline

Addressing the weed issue, I expect the best approach for weed trees is hand removal, if you do not wish to use herbicides. The removal of other weeds may be selective. A dandelion is a weed to some and an early pollination plant to others.  I  did find some information on organic lawn care which may prove helpful.

Natural Organic Lawn Care | Ohioline

There are some videos from Ohio State which may also prove helpful and I have included the link to them here:

Renovate your lawn; How to, step by step | Fairfield

I'm sure  that an early start on your lawn renovation will give you greater success. It has been an interesting spring for Ohio gardeners. Watch the weather for watering needs in your new lawn 

Wishing you the best,



Susan Schillig Replied April 06, 2026, 2:20 PM EDT

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