A gardening expert has shared a simple four-step technique to fix bare patches on lawns, promising germination results 'within weeks'. Tom Strowgler, a lifelong gardener, posted the advice on TikTok, emphasising the importance of disturbing the topsoil with a trowel before dampening it with a hosepipe to make it 'sticky'. He then recommends scattering quality grass seeds over the area and covering them with topsoil or lawn dressing to 'snuggle the seeds in between the layers'. Finally, keeping the area moist is key to success.
Responding to viewer queries, Strowgler addressed common issues such as dog urine patches, advising that if the acid remains in the soil, it may need to be replaced. For birds eating the seeds, he suggests using netting, and for ants, a fleece cover secured down. He also noted that contaminated soil in new-build gardens could impact success.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) notes that bare patches can result from physical damage, fungal diseases, or drought. They recommend spring and autumn as ideal times for repair, when conditions are damp and cool. However, if the lawn is in a very poor state, complete re-laying or re-seeding may be necessary.
