Grow a Naturally Thick, Green Lawn Without Any Weeds

Credit: melanieburger

Conway Lum’s tips will help make your lawn look more like this

Q: My lawn is uneven, full of dandelions and moss, and sparse in some areas. I don’t really mind the moss because it is quite pretty but would like to get rid of the weeds and have more green grass. What steps should I take to fix it up? I prefer not to use any chemicals.

Remember that a thicker lawn generally has very few if any weeds. Keep it healthy, and practice infrequent but deep watering through dry spells, with periodic overseeding, and aeration, and keep to a higher mowing height during hot weather. Lastly, your lawn will benefit from leaving the grass clippings on it to break down into the soil and add nourishment.

If your lawn needs a “makeover,” dig out weeds by hand, then topdress with at least 1 to 2.5 cm (¼ to ½ in.) of a good-quality soil to help even it out and also provide some nourishment. Apply a good-quality grass seed (mainly perennial ryegrass and fescue) over the entire lawn. The grass seed should be applied at a rate 20 to 50 per cent heavier than what is recommended on the bag.

Use a broom or rake to work the seed into the soil and existing lawn. Keep moist, watering at least three or four times a day for at least 10 minutes each time. Maintain even moisture for about 14 to 21 days.