How to Fix Bare Patches in Your Lawn

Bare patches spoil the look of a lawn and invite weeds. Fortunately, they are easy to fix with seed or turf.

What causes bare patches?

• Heavy foot traffic or play
• Pet urine (especially from dogs)
• Spilled fertiliser or weedkiller
• Drought or waterlogging
• Disease or pest damage
• Shade from trees or buildings
• Fuel or oil spills from mowers

Fix the underlying cause where possible, or the patches will return.

When to repair

The best times are:

• Spring (March-May): Soil is warming up and grass grows quickly.
• Early autumn (September-October): Soil is still warm, rain is more reliable, and fewer weeds compete.

Avoid summer when dry conditions make establishment difficult, and winter when grass is dormant.

Repairing with seed

1. Rake out dead grass and debris from the bare area.
2. Fork over the soil to loosen it.
3. Add a thin layer of topsoil or compost if the soil is poor.
4. Rake to create a fine, level surface.
5. Scatter grass seed evenly – about 35g per square metre.
6. Rake lightly to cover the seed.
7. Firm down with the back of a rake or by walking on a board.
8. Water gently and keep moist until established.

Protect from birds with netting or criss-crossed string. Keep off the area until the grass is established (usually 6-8 weeks).

Repairing with turf

Turf gives instant results and is better for high-traffic areas or larger patches.

1. Cut out the damaged area in a square or rectangle.
2. Remove the old turf and loosen the soil beneath.
3. Add topsoil if needed to bring the level up.
4. Cut a piece of new turf to fit exactly.
5. Lay the turf and firm down.
6. Fill any gaps with fine soil.
7. Water well and keep moist for 2-3 weeks.

Choosing grass seed

Try to match the existing lawn:

• Utility/family lawn mix: Tough and hard-wearing, good for most gardens.
• Shady lawn mix: For areas under trees or next to buildings.
• Fine lawn mix: For ornamental lawns – needs more care.
• Patch repair mix: Often includes fertiliser and mulch for quick results.

Aftercare

• Water regularly in dry weather until grass is established.
• Do not mow until new grass is at least 5cm tall.
• Set the mower high for the first few cuts.
• Avoid heavy use for at least 6-8 weeks.