Spot Repair
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When the whole lawn doesn’t need overhauling and problems are localized, spot repairs can eliminate problem areas and prevent further trouble. Getting good seed-to-soil contact is a key to successful spot repair.
Broadleaf weeds like dandelion and clover and weedy grasses like Johnson grass and crabgrass can be controlled using a proper herbicide. Ask your Lawn Center advisor if you are not sure what to use. After killing the weeds fill in the void spots with Pro-Time grass seed to be sure the weeds don’t return to fill in the bare spot. Choose the right ProTime mix for your lawn.
In areas heavy with lawn moss, kill the moss first with an Iron Sulphate or Copper-Zinc formulation. Then remove the dead moss by raking or using a dethatcher. Moss will try to fill in any thinly planted areas in the yard, so re-seeding those areas with Pro-Time grass seed is essential for lasting results. Keep your whole lawn thick by using Key-To-Green lawn fertilizers.
Grass plants frozen from frost can be severely damaged by walking on them. Re-seeding damaged grasses in the Spring will prevent weeds and weedy grasses from moving into those areas.
Other causes such as construction projects, dog urination, damage from European crane fly or lawn cutworm or acidic soils can all lead to a need for spot repair. Choose on of the following two methods for fixing problem areas:
METHOD 1 - For small patches
Remove the dead or damaged weeds and grassy weeds with a rake or cultivator. Mix one part ProTime lawn seed with two parts potting soil or Grass Straw Mulch. Broadcast the mixture approximately 1/4 inch thick over the bare spots. Press lightly to firm the soil, then keep the area moist until new seedlings are established.
METHOD 2 - For large areas
Remove dead weeds and moss with a rake or power dethatcher. Grass stubble will remain and should be mowed short to expose as much soil surface as possible. If the area is not smooth, fill the low spots with topsoil or compost then rake smooth.
Spread the appropriate ProTime lawn seed, followed by Key-To-Green Starter Plus fertilizer. Cover the entire area with a blanket of Grass Straw Mulch about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the area moist but not saturated until the new seedlings are established - normally about 14 days. When the new grass is about three inches tall, it is time to mow.
The new seedlings will continue to grow and thicken. Within four to five weeks, you should see a nice thick lawn.