Table of Contents
4.2 Weed removal
4.4 Aeration
4.5 Top dressing
4.6 Fertilise
4.7 Water
5. FAQ's
Is your once lush and vibrant lawn now showing signs of wear and tear? If the answer is a nod or even a hesitant yes, then it might be time to consider a lawn renovation. Just like a room that gets a fresh coat of paint, your lawn too can benefit from a makeover. In this article, we will delve into the nitty-gritty of lawn renovation, exploring how to prepare for it, whether you actually need it, the step-by-step process, and the essential equipment involved.
Preparing for a Spring Lawn Renovation
As winter's frosty grip gives way to the gentle embrace of spring, it's the perfect time to start thinking about giving your lawn a new lease on life.
The first step in this rejuvenating journey is preparation.
Clear your calendar for a day or a weekend when you can dedicate your time and energy to this transformational task.
Start by assessing the current state of your lawn.
Are there bare patches?
Is the grass thinning out?
Are there more weeds than blades of grass?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then you're a prime candidate for a lawn renovation.
Do You Really Need a Lawn Renovation?
Before you grab your lawn mower and garden fork, it's essential to ascertain whether your lawn truly needs a renovation or if a bit of TLC will suffice.
Lawns can suffer from a variety of issues over time, from compacted soil to poor drainage, and even pest infestations.
If your lawn has been struggling with these problems, then a renovation might be the best course of action.
Think of it as a spa day for your lawn—trimming, aerating, and nourishing.
By addressing these underlying issues, you're giving your grass the chance to flourish once again.
The Essential Equipment
Embarking on a lawn renovation journey requires a set of tools to ensure success.
Here's a list of the essential equipment you'll need:
1. Lawn Mower: Choose one with adjustable settings, as you'll need to mow your existing grass to a short height before overseeding.
2. Core Aerator: This handy tool will perforate the soil, facilitating airflow and nutrient penetration.
3. Wheelbarrow/Rake: Use a wheelbarrow to relocate your topsoil and rake to evenly distribute and level.
4. Fertiliser Spreader: To ensure an even application of fertiliser.
5. Irrigation or Sprinkler System: Proper watering is key to nurturing and recovering your lawn.
Taking the Plunge: How to Do a Lawn Renovation
Now that you're convinced your lawn deserves a revival, let's roll up our sleeves and get to work.
Here's a simplified breakdown of the lawn renovation process:
1. Fertilise: 2 weeks before renovation
Two weeks before you want to begin your lawn renovation, I would recommend you apply a high nitrogen fertiliser.
Applying a high nitrogen fertiliser will give the lawn a kickstart in growth which will help the grass recover much faster following the renovation process.
A product that I have had great results with is called Accelerate from Lawn Addicts.
2. Weed Removal: Banishing the Unwanted Intruders
Weeds can be a persistent headache for any lawn enthusiast.
Start by identifying the types of weeds plaguing your lawn, as different weeds require different removal methods.
Manual removal using hand tools like weed pullers is effective for small infestations.
For larger areas, consider using a selective herbicide.
Ensure you choose a product that targets the specific types of weeds you're dealing with, while also being safe for your grass.
If budget is tight, I would recommend buying Yates Buffalo Pro as you can use it on all warm season grasses (couch, kikuyu, buffalo).
If you are looking for better quality herbicide that can be used on all warm season grasses then I recommend Bow & Arrow.
When applying herbicides, you should use a surfactant to get better results.
A surfactant helps the herbicide to stick on the weed leaf to achieve a better kill rate.
If you don't have a surfactant, an alternative is adding a few drops of dishwashing liquid.
3. Scalping/Dethatching: Giving Your Grass Breathing Room
Scalping or dethatching is the process of removing the layer of dead grass, roots, and other debris that accumulates on the soil surface.
This layer, known as thatch, can prevent water, air, and nutrients from reaching the soil.
If you have a couch or kikuyu lawn, you can mow your lawn down to dirt.
These turf varieties have stolons (turf stems that grow above the surface) and rhizomes (turf stems that grow below the surface) which means you won't kill your lawn if you mow it down to dirt.
If you have a buffalo turf, you can do a light scalp but do not scalp it all the way down to dirt as suggested above.
Buffalo grass only have stolons, so removing them means that it is unable to repair itself causing it to die.
Using a dethatching rake or scarifier machine, gently removes the thatch to promote better penetration of water and nutrients.
Scarifier machines are quite expensive to own unless you are a turf specialist so for homeowners it would make sense to hire one from Kennards Hire.
4. Aeration: Breathing Life into Compacted Soil
Compacted soil can stifle grass root growth, leading to a lackluster lawn.
Aeration is the remedy.
Use a core aerator to remove small plugs of soil from your lawn.
This process loosens the soil, allowing for improved airflow and enhanced water absorption.
Focus on areas with high foot traffic or noticeable compaction.
Like a scarifier, an coring machine is quite expensive to purchase.
You can also hire an aerator at Kennards Hire.
An alternative to hiring an aerator is using a garden fork or even better, an aerating fork.
Avoid buying an aerating fork from Bunnings as the tines are too short to remove sufficient soil plugs.
You get what you pay for but a great product that I recommend is the aerator from Reel Solutions.
5. Top Dressing: Nourishing Your Lawn's Foundation
Top dressing involves applying a thin layer of compost or topsoil over your lawn.
This process levels the surface, fills in low spots, and provides essential nutrients to the soil.
After aeration, spread a thin, even layer of quality compost or topsoil using a shovel, then rake it smooth.
This extra layer will rejuvenate the soil and create an ideal environment for new grass growth.
You should be looking at getting either an 80/20 (80% double washed sand, 20% natural washed soil) or a 90/10 mix.
Sand is a much better option as opposed to just soil as unlike soil, sand doesn't breakdown which allows you to keep your levels after you fill in your dips of your lawn.
6. Fertilise: Feeding Your Growing Grass
Fertilisation is a critical step to fuel the growth of your newly renovated lawn.
Choose a balanced fertiliser with a formulation suitable for your grass type.
Apply the fertiliser evenly across your lawn, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
This will provide the necessary nutrients for robust growth and vibrant color.
Scott's Lawn Builder from Bunnings is a popular choice by homeowners, however this type of fertiliser only provides a release of nutrients for a short period of time (approximately 4-6 weeks).
There are better options available in the market that will provide a greater release of nutrients for a longer period of time (approximately 8+ weeks).
A product that I have had great results with is called Sustain from Lawn Addicts.
7. Water: Recovering your lawn
Proper watering is the key to establishing your renovated lawn.
Immediately after your top soil, moisten the soil to a depth of about 10-12ml.
Then, for the following weeks, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Frequent, light watering will encourage your grass to recover.
As the grass begins to grow, gradually reduce the frequency of watering while increasing the amount of water applied each time.
8. Patience and Maintenance: The Final Touches
Remember, a renovated lawn won't transform overnight.
It takes time for the grass to recover and grow into a lush carpet of green.
Be patient and resist the urge to mow until the grass reaches a height of at least 7-10cm.
When you do mow, set your mower at a higher level to avoid stressing the young plants.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your newly renovated lawn in top shape.
Continue mowing, watering, and fertilising according to the specific needs of your grass type.
Keep an eye out for any signs of pests, diseases, or weeds and address them promptly.
In Conclusion
Embarking on a lawn renovation journey might seem like a daunting task, but the results are worth the effort.
With proper preparation, a clear understanding of the process, and the right equipment, you can transform your lackluster lawn into a verdant oasis that you can be proud of.
Remember, just like any transformation, it takes time and care, but the sight of lush, healthy grass sprouting from what was once a tired landscape will be a reward in itself.
So, gear up, get ready, and let the renewal begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Lawn Renovation, and Why Do I Need It?
A. Lawn renovation is a comprehensive process that involves revitalising a tired or damaged lawn to restore its health, lushness, and aesthetic appeal. It goes beyond simple maintenance and involves steps such as weed removal, dethatching, aeration, overseeding, and more. You might need a lawn renovation if your grass is thinning, showing bare patches, overrun by weeds, or suffering from soil compaction and poor drainage.
Q. When is the Best Time to Perform Lawn Renovation?
A. The ideal time for lawn renovation depends on your grass type and local climate. Generally, the best seasons are spring. Spring allows for optimal recovery before the heat of summer. Avoid renovating during extreme weather conditions or during the peak heat of summer.
Q. Can I Do Lawn Renovation Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?
A. Lawn renovation can be a DIY project if you have the time, tools, and knowledge to execute each step effectively. However, if you're uncertain about any aspect of the process or have a larger lawn, it might be wise to consult a lawn care professional. They can assess your lawn's specific needs and ensure that each step is carried out correctly.
Q. What's the Importance of Weed Removal in Lawn Renovation?
A. Weeds compete with grass for nutrients, water, and space. They can hinder the growth of newly seeded grass and undo the results of your renovation efforts. Removing weeds before starting the renovation process ensures that your grass have a better chance to establish themselves without facing unnecessary competition.
Q. How Does Aeration Benefit My Lawn?
A. Aeration is crucial because it addresses soil compaction, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the grassroots. Compacted soil limits the movement of these essential elements, leading to poor grass growth. By using a core aerator to create channels in the soil, you create an environment that encourages stronger root development and overall lawn health.
Q. Can I Overseed My Lawn Without Renovation?
A. Yes, overseeding can be done without a full-scale renovation. If your lawn's overall health is good and you're mainly looking to improve its density and appearance, overseeding can be a beneficial practice. However, if your lawn has underlying issues like compacted soil or thatch buildup, a more comprehensive renovation might be necessary for optimal results.
Q. How Long Does It Take to See Results from Lawn Renovation?
A. Results from lawn renovation are not immediate. Recovery time varies depending on the type of grass and environmental conditions. On average, you might start to see new growth within 1 to 3 weeks.
Q. Is Fertilisation Essential After Lawn Renovation?
A. Yes, fertilisation is a critical step after lawn renovation. Applying a balanced fertiliser provides the necessary nutrients for healthy grass growth. It encourages strong root development, helps grass to establish quickly, and contributes to the overall health and vibrancy of your renovated lawn.
Q. How Often Should I Water My Lawn After Renovation?
A. Immediately after renovation, you should keep the soil consistently moist to avoid drying out. Watering lightly two to three times a day is usually sufficient during this period. As the grass begins to grow, gradually reduce the frequency of watering while increasing the amount of water applied each time. Aim for deep watering to encourage deep root growth.
Q. Can I Walk on My Renovated Lawn?
A. While your newly renovated lawn is establishing itself, it's best to avoid heavy foot traffic. Wait until the grass has grown to a height of at least 7cm before resuming regular foot traffic and activities on the lawn.