How to Fix Patchy and Thin Lawns: Get That Green Carpet Look!

Is your lawn looking more like a patchwork quilt than a lush, green carpet? Don’t stress! Every lawn needs a little TLC now and then. Here's how to turn those bald spots into a thick, healthy lawn that’ll be the envy of the neighbourhood.

Why Does My Lawn Look Patchy?

Before we jump into the fix, let's figure out why your lawn is looking a bit sparse. Common culprits include:

Harsh Weather: After a brutal summer or cold winter, your lawn might be struggling to bounce back.

Pets and Kids: Our beloved pets and energetic kids can turn a green lawn into a patchy mess.

Weeds: Once you've removed the weeds, they often leave behind bare patches.

Poor Soil: Compacted or nutrient-poor soil can make it tough for grass to grow.

No worries though, we’ve got you covered!

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Patchy Lawns

1. Prepare the Area

First things first, get rid of any dead grass and weeds. Use a rake to clear the area and a garden fork to gently aerate the soil. This will help your new grass seeds get the air and nutrients they need.

2. Choose Your Fix: Patch Magic or Seed Blend

You’ve got two great options for patching up those bare spots:

Option 1: Scotts Lawn Builder Patch Magic This all-in-one patching solution makes it super easy. Just shake the Patch Magic over the bare spots, covering about two-thirds of the area. Water it well, and you’re done!

Option 2: Seed Blend If you prefer a more hands-on approach, spread some organic lawn soil, like Scotts Lawn Builder Organic Topdress. Lightly fluff it through before leveling. Then, sprinkle Scotts Lawn Builder Seed & Feed mix over the area. This mix includes a starter fertiliser, so you don’t need to worry about extra feeding!

3. Keep It Moist

For the first few weeks, keep the patched areas nice and moist. This helps the seeds germinate and start growing strong. Watering lightly but frequently is key.

4. For Thinner Lawns: Try Oversowing

If your lawn is thin all over, it needs a bit of extra attention:

Clear and Prep

Use a steel-pronged rake to remove debris and give the lawn a quick mow.

Oversowing

Spread a lawn seed mix evenly across the entire area. For best results, use a Scotts Lawn Builder Hand Spreader.

Water Well

Water thoroughly to help the seeds settle in and start growing.

For the first three weeks, keep the soil moist and avoid mowing. When you do mow next, stick to removing no more than one-third of the new growth.

Extra Tips to Keep Your Lawn Looking Extra Lush

Fertilise Regularly: Feeding your lawn with a slow-release fertilizer like Scotts Lawn Builder All Purpose keeps your grass strong and healthy.

Mow Smart: Keep your mower blades sharp and never cut more than a third of the grass height at a time.

Aerate Annually: Give your lawn a good aeration once a year to keep the soil from getting compacted.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a thick, lush lawn. Your backyard will be the perfect spot for BBQs, playing with the kids, or just kicking back with a cold drink.