What percentage of turf cover loss is recommended before re-establishing turfgrass?

Re-establishing turfgrass is recommended after a 50% loss of turf cover because at this level of damage, the existing grass is likely insufficient to recover fully through natural means or overseeding alone. When turf cover drops to around 50%, the grass may struggle to compete with weeds and other opportunistic plants, which can further hinder recovery efforts. Ensuring that at least a portion of healthy grass remains can also preserve soil structure and health, helping to promote the establishment of new grass in a beneficial environment.

This 50% threshold is often considered a practical guideline in horticulture, as it strikes a balance between keeping the existing turf viable while allowing enough space and opportunity for new growth. If the turf cover loss were lower, the remaining grass might still have the capacity to recover; if it were complete, one would need to start anew, which can be more resource-intensive and time-consuming.