Question
I live in florida and have a new, 8 months old, palmetto lawn about 2000 sq feet, it seems to be turning brown on some spots and weed(looks like crabgrass) is also growing. Could you please tell me what to use make it healthy. Do you think it's better to buy seeds or plugs to fill brown spots.
Would you mind telling me what to use year round......... thanks!

Answer
Diego:

I am confused by "Palmetto" lawn.  There appear to be two varieties, one of Buffalo grass and one of St. Augustine grass.  I read that Palmetto Buffalo is a sterile hybrid and can not be seeded, but the source of that statement is not verified.

Under stress, both will leave room for other grasses and weeds.  Buffalo variety appears to be the weaker lawn under wet conditions.  St. Augustine may be managed with herbicides and cultural practices to renew its vigor.

Buffalo variety was encouraged for drought areas (Texas) and is not managed as a normal turf - low nitrogen, little water, etc.

If you have Buffalo grass, you can seed with another variety to fill in.  Treat weeds in dormant season with a pre-emergent and wait to seed until spring.

If you have St. Augustine variety, use same practices and expect a better result than with Buffalo.

Seeds should be cheaper than plugs, but you only have 2000 sq. ft. to repair.  Your choice.

I would consider a grass better suited to your location if performance is not satisfactory.  First, identify which Palmetto you have.  Then, check with your local ag agent to see what he recommends.  Transition to another St. Aug's will be easy.

Best wishes.