If your lawn is looking a little uneven, and there are one too many dips where it could pose a bit of a danger when people walk on it. Or perhaps you just want to get your sloping garden all on the same eye-line. Well, let’s learn how to level a lawn. Yes, it may take a little time and patience, but it will all be worth it when you gaze out upon your perfect grassed area each day!
Before you begin, it’s always a good idea to gauge the size of your task by thoroughly checking your yard to determine how much levelling you’ll need and if there drainage problems. The reason being that uneven ground is often a result of a drainage issue or damage with water pipes. If this is the case, you’ll want to identify it straight away, so you don’t go to the trouble of levelling your lawn only to have the problem reoccur.
If you are noticing a lot of low spots in your lawn, especially around any water pipes, you’ll want to have it assessed by a professional drainage system plumber. If they determine you do in fact have a drainage issue, you’ll need to re-grade the lawn along with levelling it, so your surface slopes away from the property. This helps to avoid flooding. Another option can be the installation of an underground drainage system with gravel or flexible drainpipes.
It is important to note that drainage may not be the only cause of bumps and hollows in your lawn. Over time, simple wear and tear, drought and a range of other issues will disrupt the level of your lawn.
The best time of year to level your lawn is in spring, as it is the time when grass seeds flourish. There is sufficient moisture in the soil, and it will make for a far easier (and more successful) process.
There are two processes for how to level a lawn, each suited for different degrees of damage. We measure the amount of damage based on the depth of the dips. One process is suited to low shallow spots, the other for dips deeper than 2-3cms.
Either way, you’ll need a mixture for the top dressing which should feature:
This mixture will fill out the dips, improve drainage and fill your soil with nutrients.
Regardless of the method, you choose below, the days before you plan to level your lawn, you need to give it a good water to soften up the soil. This makes it much easier to make more accurate adjustments. Don’t overwater as trying to level mud is very tricky!
The first levelling method which is best suited for shallow spots can be applied to dips of around 1-2cm lower than your level soil.
If you have sections of your lawn that have sunk more than 2cm, you’ll need a slightly different method.
For areas of the lawn that are raised:
Once you have done all of this work to level your lawn, you’ll want to keep it healthy. With a few easy actions, you can end up with the greenest lawn on your block.
First, you should aerate your lawn to make sure the soil beneath your grass doesn’t become overly-compacted. This causes issues with air circulation, water drainage, and nutrient absorption. For successful lawn aeration simply puncture holes throughout your lawn that are about three inches deep.
From here, get in the habit of watering your grass deeply and less often. This allows the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Aim for the rule of one inch of water, once a week. If the first 3-4 inches of your soil is dry, then it’s likely time to water again. If you want to water less frequently, use water crystals, sprinkled throughout your grass.
Water absorbing crystals help reduce the number of times you water by around 50 per cent! The best time of the day to give your lawn a water is early in the morning. This way, you can avoid it being a wasted activity due to evaporation in the hotter or windier parts of the day.
Finally, you can give your lawn-health a significant boost with natural lawn fertilisers. It is always a good idea to use natural fertilisers instead of synthetic ones. They are not only better for your grass but the environment as well. They are also proven to work better and are healthier for your family, pets and other areas of the yard.
You will need a topdressing to level your yard. The best mixture is easy to make yourself and can be made up of, two parts sand, two parts topsoil, and one part compost.
Once you have used this mixture to level out your lawn, you’ll also want to add some grass seed to help foster the growth of new grass. On top of all of this, you’ll need some significant watering to ensure a healthy process.
The easiest way to rectify any low spots in your yard is by filling the sunken area with topdressing and compacting it to ensure it is firm. Make sure you reach the level of the surrounding areas and add some new grass seed to foster the re-growth of your lawn.
After you have filled the low spot to a level point and added the seed, you will need to water generously. This will help the rooting system take effect. In time, the patch will be gone. You’ll then have a healthy spot of new lawn to match the areas around it!
Now that you have read this article, you are armed with all of the knowledge you need to rectify any less-than-perfect patches of your lawn. The result will be a flawless green area that will increase the look of your home.
If, however, you don’t quite have the time that needs to be dedicated to the resurrection mission, there are plenty of people who can help! From simple lawn mowing to turf laying, repair and general lawn care maintenance, you’ll find a host of skilled lawn experts who can help to create the grass of your dreams. You can also get help with lawn fertilisation, aeration, and seeding, so there is no excuse for a shabby lawn!
If, on the other hand, you do have the time to dedicate to your garden, why stop at your lawn? We have a range of other helpful articles that will stir your inner-green thumb. The bonus being they help increase the looks and enjoyment of your home! Read about our courtyard design ideas, backyard improvements and front garden ideas to boost that curb appeal. If you love being out in the garden, there is no shortage of DIY tips and ideas that will significantly change your outdoor aesthetic.
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