Tackling a patchy lawn can be a tough task but there are a few things you can do to help get it back into shape and looking lush – and I’ve shared some of the advice I’ve learnt below
There’s something truly delightful about savouring a morning brew while gazing out at your garden with a sense of accomplishment. The soothing sound of birdsong as your lush green lawn sparkles in the early sunlight is a simple yet profound pleasure.
However, as any green-fingered enthusiast will tell you, maintaining that pristine lawn is no walk in the park – especially when it’s subject to regular wear and tear. Unfortunately, this is a predicament I know all too well.
The relentless trampling of my dog throughout a soggy spring and winter had transformed my lawn from a verdant paradise into something resembling Shrek’s swamp. It’s frustrating because a patchy lawn can really let down the overall look of your garden, no matter how hard you try.
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Trust me, I’ve been there. I went through countless boxes of grass seed before I finally began to see some improvement and achieve the lawn I’d always wanted (well, almost, but it’s as good as I’m likely to get without imposing a strict no-walking rule).
While I’m no Monty Don, I do enjoy pottering around in the garden and helping it to thrive, and here are some crucial tips that helped me rescue my patchy lawn last summer and restore it to its former glory, reports the Express.
Invest in a fork
Preparation is everything, and garden forks are pretty affordable (this 2-piece spade and fork set is £31.99 on Amazon). I discovered that turning over compacted soil before sowing the seed makes a world of difference.
It’s also worth giving the grass a good poke to aerate the soil across the garden, keeping your lawn looking its best.
Compost is key
One significant factor that improved my lawn was the use of compost or topsoil. In my early attempts at reseeding, I merely scattered it around and hoped for the best.
However, I later discovered that incorporating compost into the bare patches significantly aided in regrowth.
I’ve even observed areas where the seed is thriving with compost, while it’s extremely sparse adjacent to it where there wasn’t enough. Compost can be obtained from places like Wickes for £8 (or get 3 bags for £20) or Amazon for £16.91.
Water, water, water
While grass seed will grow when it’s warm, it’s crucial to keep the area moist. I’ve found that consistently watering the seed with a hosepipe (Hozelock Cart Plus is £73.85 on Amazon) greatly accelerates germination – and assists the grass in establishing quickly.
When I first experimented with grass seed, I only watered it sporadically, resulting in virtually no results three weeks later. However, more recent trials with regular watering have seen the seed sprouting within about a week.
If you’re worried about the amount of water a hosepipe uses, a water butt could be the solution (this 210L one is £60.99 on Amazon). They function by connecting to a downpipe and collecting rainwater that can be used for your garden.
Consider the sunlight
There’s a spot in my garden that’s looking rather sorry for itself, hidden behind a tree and not getting enough sunlight. I’m thinking of giving shade-tolerant grass seed a go, but let’s face it, those shady patches on your lawn are always going to be a bit lacklustre compared to the sun-soaked areas.
I’ve come to terms with the fact that this particular area might never be the garden’s crowning glory.
Take care when mowing
The general rule of thumb is to wait until new seedlings reach about 6-7 cm before giving them their first trim, and trust me, you’ll want to heed that advice – don’t go in for the chop too early. I learned that lesson the hard way.
Once your lawn is back to its former glory, if you’re not exactly thrilled by the prospect of mowing, consider joining the ranks of gardeners who’ve handed the job over to robot mowers. They can be a bit pricey, mind you.
For instance, Flymo’s model will set you back £592.37 on Amazon, where one customer has hailed it as “perfect”.
However, take note that not everyone’s over the moon with the accompanying app needed to operate these gadgets.
Other gizmos to get your grass in tip-top shape
Now, I haven’t tried these out personally, but they come recommended for achieving that enviable lush lawn once the seed has established:
Richard Jackson Flower Power Premium Lawn Magic – going for £34.99 on Amazon, it’s garnered reviews for making an “immediate improvement”, although some folks find it a tad tricky to apply.
Miracle-Gro Fast green Liquid Spray and feed 1L – available at B&Q for £15, with one customer claiming their turf looked “healthier and greener after just one application”, while another was less impressed by the outcome.
