How to Fix Bare Spots in St. Augustine With Plugs or Sod

Why seed doesn't work

Common St. Augustine varieties produce little or no viable seed, which is why you won't find it on the shelf. Instead, it spreads by thick above-ground runners called stolons. Plugs and sod take advantage of that: you plant living pieces, and the runners grow out to cover the gaps.

First, find out why it's bare

Bare spots happen for a reason: chinch bugs, fungus, a broken sprinkler, heavy shade, compacted soil, or a dog's favorite spot. Fix the cause first. The diagnosis guide can help.

When to plant

Plant when St. Augustine is actively growing and the soil is warm: late spring through mid-summer on the Gulf Coast. That gives the plugs a full season to spread before winter. Avoid planting in fall, when there isn't enough growing time left. Also skip areas where you've recently put down pre-emergent, since it can keep new roots from forming.

How to plant plugs

1. Clear the area. Remove dead grass and weeds, and loosen compacted soil. Core aerating the spot helps.
2. Add a little compost and work it into the top few inches.
3. Space the plugs about 12 inches apart in a grid. Closer spacing fills in faster but costs more.
4. Plant them level with the surrounding soil, roots down, runners at the surface. I use a soil plug tool to cut the holes so each plug sits level. Press firmly so there's good soil contact.
5. Water daily for the first week or two to keep roots moist, then taper back to deep, less frequent watering as they root in.
6. Feed lightly once they're rooted and growing, and keep mowing at your normal height. Hold off on weed killers until the plugs are established.

When to use sod instead

For a full guide to watering and mowing new sod, see new St. Augustine sod care.

For a big area, a high-traffic spot, or anywhere you need it fixed now, cut a piece of sod to fit. Lay it level with the surrounding lawn, press it down, and keep it moist daily until it roots, usually a couple of weeks.

Help small thin spots fill in on their own

For thin, not bare, areas: core aerate, topdress with a light layer of compost, and keep up with feeding and deep watering. Healthy runners on the edges will creep in.