Mowing New Grass and Repairing Bare Spots in Maryland

When to Mow a New Lawn

Six weeks after seeding, grass is 4–5 inches tall but some 2x2 ft patches remain bare or sparse. The respondent advises mowing now—remove only 1 inch at a time, targeting a 3-inch height. Mowing stimulates grass and suppresses weeds. Keep clippings for mulch on bare spots.

Causes of Bare Patches

• Seed washed away by overwatering or poor mulching.
• Areas not watered, now germinating late.
• Poorer, sandier soil that dried out.
• Variable germination (less likely in distinct patches).

Fertilizer and Seed Advice

Scotts Starter Fertilizer is discouraged—synthetic nitrogen stretches grass, invites disease, and kills soil life. Instead, build soil with compost. For Maryland’s hot, humid summers, the respondent recommends a shade-tolerant bluegrass hybrid like ‘Supernova’ for shady spots and a tall fescue/bluegrass mix for sun. White clover seeded into bare areas fixes nitrogen naturally. Water deeply but infrequently, morning only, to avoid fungus.