How To Patch a Smothered Lawn

Reviving a damaged lawn can feel daunting, but it’s a rewarding project for any homeowner. When your grass has suffered under artificial turf, playground equipment, or similar obstructions, returning it to a rich, green expanse is achievable. With the right methods—demonstrated in the video by This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook—a muddy, patchy area can transform into a vibrant lawn.

*Unless otherwise noted, costs in this article reflect an average of prices that our team found from hardware stores like Lowes and Home Depot, and on Amazon.com.

Understanding Smothered Lawns

A smothered lawn occurs when grass is denied key elements like sunlight, air, and water. This deprivation is often due to the placement of artificial turf or large objects on the grass for extended periods. The consequence is a muddy, bare patch that’s unsightly amid a vibrant lawn.

Signs of a Smothered Lawn

Recognizing a smothered lawn is essential to restoration, and these are the common indicators:

• Large areas of dead or wilting grass
• Soil that feels compacted and hard
• Bare patches with little grass growth
• Yellowing or discolored grass blades
• Poor drainage, resulting in standing water

Common Causes of Lawn Smothering

Many elements contribute to a lawn losing its vigor, such as:

• Artificial turf or landscape fabric covering grass too long
• Weighty objects like playground sets left stationary
• Buildup of excessive thatch
• Poor lawn care habits
• Extended snow or leaf cover

Preparing the Smothered Lawn for Restoration

Getting your lawn back to health begins with properly preparing the affected area. This step involves removing obstructions and loosening compacted earth.

Removing Debris and Artificial Turf

If grass has suffered beneath artificial turf or similar coverings, the primary task is its removal. In his demonstration, Cook assists a homeowner in efficiently rolling back and discarding materials that had concealed the lawn.

Loosening Compacted Soil

After clearing the area, Cook recommends addressing compact soil by employing a rototiller to break up the soil, promoting a more permeable surface. If not personally owned, these tools can typically be rented from home centers.

Improving Soil Quality of a Smothered Lawn

Enhancing soil quality is crucial for a flourishing lawn. This involves integrating organic matter and ensuring the area is nutrient-rich for new grass.

Add Compost

Adding compost significantly benefits the soil. It enhances the structure, boosts water retention, supplies nutrients, and encourages beneficial microbes. A layer of compost should be spread over the site and then worked into the soil using a rototiller, setting the stage for healthy grass growth.

Level the Surface

Post-tilling, utilize a garden rake to even the terrain. Ensuring a smooth surface is integral to uniform grass growth and effective drainage. Attention should be paid to uneven areas, adjusting soil levels as necessary.

Seeding the Smothered Lawn

After soil preparation is complete, planting grass seed is the next step. Selecting appropriate seed mixes and applying them accurately is vital to cultivating a healthy, robust lawn.

Select the Right Seed Mix

In the Northeast, Cook suggests a mix of rye, fescue, and bluegrass. This combination yields a resilient, visually pleasing lawn in varied conditions.

Apply the Seed

Deploy a broadcast spreader to disperse the seed across the prepared plot evenly. Generous application is advised to ensure thorough coverage. To optimize seed-to-soil contact, lightly rake over the seeded area.

Fertilizing and Topdressing a Smothered Lawn

To give your new grass the ideal starting conditions, proper fertilization and topdressing are necessary steps.

Apply Starter Fertilizer

A starter fertilizer should be spread over the seeded area. If planting occurs in spring, Cook suggests utilizing fertilizer with Tupersan to deter weeds without harming emerging grass shoots.

Topdress the Lawn

Applying a light compost layer is an effective topdressing, safeguarding the seeds and enriching the soil. This measure aids in moisture retention and adds nutrient value as the lawn establishes itself.

Watering and Maintenance for a Smothered Lawn

Steady watering and continued maintenance are pivotal for the lawn’s successful rejuvenation.

Watering Schedule

Consistently water the newly seeded area. Twice-daily watering is recommended until the grass reaches a height of about 3 inches. Regular watering ensures the soil stays moist, fostering seed germination and initial growth phases.

Ongoing Care

Once the grass is developed, adhere to the following care steps:

• Decrease watering frequency gradually, increasing each watering duration
• Start mowing when grass grows to about 3 inches
• Keep an eye out for any bare patches needing reseeding
• Follow a fertilization schedule suitable for the grass type and environmental region

Adding More Life to Your Lawn

A vibrant lawn doesn’t stop at just green grass. To truly enhance your outdoor space, consider integrating additional elements that not only bring beauty but also encourage biodiversity.

Incorporate Flower Beds

Adding flower beds is a wonderful option that injects color and life. Choose a mix of perennial and annual flowers to ensure your garden blooms throughout the growing season. When designing, consider a color scheme that complements your home’s exterior and the existing landscape. A well-planned flower bed can also attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Install Pathways

Creating paths can divide your garden into distinct sections while providing functional walkways. These paths, made from materials like brick, stone, or gravel, add a structured look and minimize foot traffic over your grass, protecting the lawn and aiding in maintenance efforts.

Introduce Edible Plants

For those inclined toward practical gardening, introducing edible plants such as herbs or vegetables can be both rewarding and decorative. Find a sunny spot in your yard for a kitchen garden where you can grow basil, tomatoes, lettuce, or any of your favorite herbs and veggies.

Avoiding Future Lawn Smothering

To preserve your revitalized lawn, consider strategies that prevent future smothering incidents.

Regular Lawn Inspection

Frequent checks help catch early signs of potential smothering due to debris accumulation. Remove any objects that may suppress grass growth and aerate compact areas as needed.

Proper Use of Lawn Accessories

When using garden features such as tents or inflatable pools, move them regularly to avoid prolonged coverage that damages the grass. Be mindful of sunlight and water needs, ensuring these elements aren’t inadvertently blocked by temporary structures.

Regular Thatch Management

Incorporate dethatching practices into your seasonal lawn care routine. This removes excess organic material that can prohibit vital water from reaching your lawn.

Resources

Cook recommends using a rototiller to loosen the soil, which can be rented from a home center or tool rental shop. He then recommends adding compost to boost soil nutrition. All of the supplies and materials for this project can be found at home centers and landscape supply stores.

Tools