Richard, who runs the Sheffield Made Gardens and Sheffield Made Plants YouTube channels, has shared a "hassle-free" method for fixing bare patches on lawns, claiming it works "every time". The technique aims to make grass seed germinate "much more reliably", offering a solution for those struggling with patchy, brown grass.
Lawns across the UK have been weakened by multiple heatwaves during an incredibly dry summer. Even with recent rain, many lawns still look patchy and brown due to a lack of moisture in the soil. Much of the country remains under a hosepipe ban as a result.
Why lawns turn brown
One of the main reasons grass turns pale or brown is insufficient moisture in the soil. Richard explained that autumn is the ideal time for planting grass seed, with spring being the next best option.
In a video on the subject, he said: "Have you got a bare patch in your lawn that just refuses to fill in? Well, there are a few simple tricks that make grass seed germinate much more reliably. I'll show you the exact way to do it so it actually grows back in properly. It's a hassle-free method that works for me every time."
Step-by-step method
Richard outlined his process, starting with removing stones and raking. He noted he had previously tried to level the area to match his patio, but the first stage involved clearing large stones, fallen foliage, and weeds. Next, he gently raked the surface to loosen the topsoil. If the ground still appeared uneven, he advised adding more soil but warned against using compost, as it tends to "shrink down" and create an "uneven finish".
After preparing the ground, Richard spread an all-purpose seed blend. He explained: "Now, the trick here is to not go too heavy because cramming too much seed into one spot can actually work against you." He added: "The seedlings end up competing with each other and none of them do as well as they should." He also scattered some seed amongst the established grass to help the new growth blend in.
Covering and watering
The "most important" step was covering the seed to protect it from birds and maximise contact between soil and seed. Richard passed topsoil through a garden sieve and applied a "light dusting" to the affected area, roughly half a centimetre, noting that large clumps would hinder the seedlings.
He then recommended a gentle watering, describing it as a "nice soft spray". He warned against giving the soil a "blast" to avoid washing the seeds into one corner. The soil should be "nicely damp" but not waterlogged. He continued: "And then it's just a case of keeping an eye on it and waiting for germination. Now the biggest danger at this stage is the seed drying out. So if you can, water it at least twice a day in dry weather to keep that top layer nice and moist."
Initial shoots should emerge within approximately seven days. When Richard returned to the area three weeks later, it had undergone a remarkable transformation, displaying fresh growth across the entire space. He observed that some patchiness is to be expected during the first couple of months, as the grass will become denser once regular mowing commences. Richard warned to "resist the temptation" to scatter additional seed unless sparse areas persist beyond several months. He emphasised that the "most important thing" is exercising patience and ensuring the area doesn't become parched.
