A lush, green lawn is every homeowner’s dream, but did you know that invisible threats could be damaging your grass without you realizing it? Winnipeg homeowners face unique challenges when it comes to lawn care, and small environmental factors can make a big impact on your turf’s health. Here are four hidden threats that could be ruining your lawn—and what you can do about them.

1. Heat Reflection from Windows

If you notice dry, yellow patches appearing in the same spots year after year, the culprit could be heat reflection from your windows. Glass windows can act like magnifying glasses, intensifying sunlight and scorching the grass below.

Who does this affect most?

• Homeowners with large south- or west-facing windows

• Properties with reflective surfaces like glass fences or mirrors nearby

How to fix it:

• Install exterior window screens or protective films to reduce glare.

• Plant shrubs or taller plants near problem areas to provide shade.

• Water the affected spots more frequently to counteract excess heat.

2. Heat Absorption from Sidewalks & Driveways

Concrete, asphalt, and stone surfaces absorb and radiate heat, causing nearby grass to dry out much faster than the rest of your lawn. This is why the edges of your lawn, near sidewalks and driveways, often appear brittle and brown.

Who does this affect most?

• Homes with driveways or walkways bordering large lawn areas

• Properties with dark-colored hardscapes (black asphalt absorbs more heat than concrete)

How to fix it:

• Use drought-resistant grass varieties for edging.

• Add a mulch or decorative stone border to create a buffer between grass and pavement.

• Water lawn edges in the evening to help retain moisture overnight.

3. Water Runoff on Sloped Lawns

If your lawn is on a slope, you might struggle with uneven growth. That’s because water runs downhill too quickly for the soil to absorb it, leaving the top of the slope dry and patchy while the bottom stays overly moist.

Who does this affect most?

• Homeowners with sloped yards or uneven terrain

• Properties with poor soil that doesn’t absorb water well

How to fix it:

• Aerate your lawn to improve water absorption.

• Add organic matter or compost to help the soil retain moisture.

• Consider terracing or planting ground cover to slow down runoff.

4. Grass Competing with Trees for Nutrients

Large trees provide beautiful shade, but their roots compete with grass for water and nutrients. As a result, the grass around trees often looks thin, weak, or yellow.

Who does this affect most?

• Homes with mature trees in the yard

• Lawns with multiple trees close together

How to fix it:

• Apply extra fertilizer to tree-surrounding grass to replenish nutrients.

• Use deep root watering techniques to ensure the tree and grass get adequate moisture.

• Replace struggling grass under trees with mulch or shade-tolerant ground cover.

Need Help Restoring Your Lawn?

If your lawn is suffering from dry patches, weak grass, or nutrient deficiencies, Yardona Property Maintenance can help! Our weed control and fertilization services are designed to keep your lawn healthy, green, and resilient against these hidden threats.

Click here to learn more and get an instant quote today!