How to Fix a Patchy Lawn
Patchy lawns are frustrating, and the quick fix of throwing down some seed often fails because the underlying problem is still there. The good news is that most patches can be repaired with a bit of detective work and a few tools.
Step 1: Find the cause
- Shade. Many grasses struggle with limited light.
- Compacted soil. Heavy foot traffic squeezes the air out of the soil.
- Pet urine. It often leaves brown patches with a green ring.
- Pests or disease. If the grass lifts easily like a carpet, grubs may be eating the roots.
- Drought or poor soil. Thin, dry, or nutrient-poor soil leads to weak grass.
Step 2: Prepare the ground
Rake away dead grass and debris. Loosen the top few centimetres of soil with a rake or a garden fork, and break up any compaction. Mix in a little compost or topsoil to improve the surface where seed will sit.
Step 3: Choose the right seed
Match the seed to the conditions: a shade mix for shady spots, and a hard-wearing mix for play areas. Check the label for the species and the recommended sowing rate.
Step 4: Sow and cover
Spread the seed evenly over the prepared patch, press it lightly into the soil with a rake or your feet, and cover it with a thin layer of compost or straw. This helps the seed stay moist and out of reach of birds.
Step 5: Water gently
Keep the area consistently damp, not soaked, until the seedlings are established, which can take several weeks. Water lightly once or twice a day in dry weather, then reduce as the grass grows.
Timing
In many climates, early autumn is the best time to sow cool-season grasses, with spring as a second choice. Warm-season grasses are usually sown in late spring or early summer. Check what suits your region.
Keep it up
Wait until the new grass is tall enough to mow, and set the mower on a high setting. Avoid heavy foot traffic on the repaired area.
Fix the cause first, then the patch, and your lawn should stay full for the long term.