How to Repair Bare Patches in Your Lawn: A No-Nonsense Kiwi Guide
Bare patches on your lawn are an eyesore and a source of frustration for many Kiwi homeowners. Whether caused by foot traffic, pests, diseases, or other environmental factors, these unsightly spots tarnish the overall appearance of your lawn, even diminishing the curb appeal of your home. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can restore it to its lush, green glory.
Read on to discover what causes bare patches, the most effective ways to repair them, and how professional lawnmowing services from Express Lawnmowing can help keep your grass healthy and patch-free.
What causes bare patches in a lawn?
Understanding why bare patches appear in the first place is key to preventing and effectively treating them. Here are the most common causes:
• Foot Traffic: Repeated foot traffic compacts the soil, making it difficult for grass to grow. Whether it’s a bit of backyard cricket or children running around, frequent use can wear down the grass over time.
• Lawn Diseases: Fungal infections such as brown patches, dollar spots, fusarium, and red thread can weaken and kill grass, leaving unattractive patches sporadically popping up over time. Poor drainage, inadequate permeation, and excessive moisture often contribute to these diseases.
• Pest Infestations: Grass grubs and some species of caterpillars feed on grass roots, causing thinning and bare spots. If you notice more birds than usual pecking at your lawn, it may be a sign of pest infestation.
• Weed Control: Excessive herbicide usage to remove weeds can leave gaps in your lawn where weeds were once prolific. Without proper reseeding, these spaces can become dry, compacted, and susceptible to further weed growth.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can weaken grass and lead to bare patches. Soil pH imbalances may also affect grass health, preventing it from absorbing nutrients effectively.
• Pet Urine: Lawns are the perfect place for our furry companions to spend time in. Unfortunately, dog urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which can damage grass and encourage dead zones. While small amounts can be harmless or even act as a fertiliser, regular urination in one spot can be detrimental to lawn health.
How to repair bare patches in your lawn
Bare patches don’t appear overnight, and they don’t get fixed in an afternoon either. Before you lose all hope, keep in mind that bare patch repair is a gradual process.
1. Identify and address the root cause
Before repairing bare patches, determine the underlying issue. If compacted soil is the problem, strategically aerate your lawn. If pests are to blame, find the best products to get rid of them.
2. Prepare the patch for repair
Proper preparation sets the foundation for healthy regrowth—follow these steps to get your lawn ready:
• Use a rake to clear the bare spot and remove dead grass, debris, and weeds.
• Loosen the top layer of soil to improve aeration and encourage root penetration.
• Lightly water the area to moisten the soil before reseeding.
3. Level the soil
If the bare patch is sunken compared to the rest of the lawn, add a fine layer of topsoil and rake it evenly across. A uniform surface area helps promote seed germination and long-term growth.
4. Reseed the area
Once the soil is prepared, it’s time to plant new grass:
• Choose a lawn seed mix suited to your climate and lawn conditions. Ask your local garden centre for advice.
• Scatter the seed evenly over the prepared patch.
• Lightly rake the area to mix the seed with the topsoil.
• Consider adding a thin layer of compost or mulch to retain moisture and protect the seeds from birds and the elements.
5. Water and maintain
Newly seeded areas need proper care to thrive—keep these maintenance tips in mind:
• Water the patch gently but deeply every couple of days to keep the soil moist.
• Avoid watering in the middle of the day when the water will evaporate or in the evening when the temperature drops, which can encourage fungal growth.
• Keep foot traffic and pets away from the area to allow new grass to grow without disturbances.
• Once the grass reaches 5 – 8 cm in height, mow it lightly, ensuring the mower blades are sharp to prevent damage.
Let Express Lawnmowing take care of your lawn before any bare patches set in
Bare patches in your lawn don’t have to be a permanent problem. By researching possible causes and following a preventative maintenance plan, you can enjoy a vibrant lawn all year round.
You don’t have to deal with this alone, either – Express Lawnmowing is here to help. Our lawnmowing services will keep your grass healthy and prevent those pesky bare patches from returning.
Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.