Why won't grass grow here?

We have a spot on the side of house, about a foot in diameter, where no grass will grow. We've tried everything. What causes this and what do you suggest? Thanks in advance.

Mrs. Kelly

Can you say a little more about the area? Is it really shady? Under an overhang so it never gets any rain? A low spot that always stays wet? Dog always pees there? A picture might help too if you're having a hard time figuring out what makes it different than the areas around it where the grass will grow.

I can take a photo tomorrow (it's dark here now). No, dog doesn't do her business there., Not shaded...a real mystery.

Did you take a tree (like a pine) out on that spot? I had 3 spots in my front yard, big round pale green/yellow spots. We laughed about it, it looked like one of those spots you see where people claim aliens landed LOL Just like that.
Stick a ph meter in the ground and see what it tells you. Good luck

Will grass not grow there period? Or, does it get a start and die? I have a few spots like that --but we also have a lot of large rock (boulders in some places) not too deep underground and that is a problem. Also some problem grass in areas with nearby big tree - root competition, etc. but it should not be so specific a problem for you - if roots an issue your problem should extend beyond one small specific area like that.

Likely to be a shallow object, or -- somebody dumped something evil there. There are many common chemicals around households or construction sites that are carelessly poured out on the ground and **disappear** (at least to humans).

As far as the soil profile goes, though, that stuff is still there and apparently at least grass doesn't tolerate it.

You could take a sample to your county Cooperative Extension Service, and ask for an analysis.

That is a good idea (the analysis)

Also dig down into that spot. Learn if there is something under there preventing the roots from getting established or getting in the way of drainage, etc.

Ah, I'd forgotten about the age old method... dumping building stuff in the ground so nobody will see!! Dig some and see what you'll find. But concerning the ttree(s), a pine will make soil acidy. Difficult for grass. Extension services are great. Pick up a bag from them take few scoops here and there from your yard and send it in. Cost may be $6 or $7
Keep us informed.

It was on old tree stump. :-) We got rid of it and now grass grows there. Thanks.

Glad that was all it was - all's well that ends well.

Glad for you!!!

I had the same problem and i was asked was the soil clay like which it was so I was told to buy top soil and replant seeds and the grass did grow. Could it be the dirt?

I have an area that is like that. It starts out real nice in spring and then, it all dies. I think now, listening to the forum, it is because that is where the old septic tank is and the soil is too shallow on top for it to drain well like you have said. That might be why the previous owners had a raised bed there. it is the side of the house so I was thinking about just putting in a paver path.