A patchy lawn frustrates even the most careful gardeners. You water, mow and feed, yet bare spots keep appearing. The result looks tired instead of inviting.
A healthy lawn should anchor your garden. It hosts braais, playtime and quiet outdoor moments. When grass thins or disappears, the problem often sits below the surface rather than on top.
Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager at Husqvarna South Africa, offers reassurance. Patchy lawns affect many homes. More than one issue usually plays a role. The upside is simple. Most lawns recover with the right steps.
WHY LAWNS TURN PATCHY
Hard, compacted soil
Heavy foot traffic and clay soils compress the ground. Roots struggle to breathe and spread.
Poor drainage
Standing water after rain drowns grass roots and weakens growth.
Low nutrients
Grass without enough nitrogen or organic matter loses colour and density.
Too much shade
Grass needs light. Shaded areas grow thin and uneven.
Pests
White grubs feed on roots and kill grass from below, leaving bald patches.
Uneven watering
Missed corners or irregular schedules leave parts of the lawn dry.
Brown rings or circles
Fungal infections often appear after warm, damp weather.
HOW TO FIX A PATCHY LAWN
Start with the soil
Remove debris and rake out dead grass. Loosen compacted areas so roots spread more easily. For small patches, use a garden fork. For larger areas, a battery-powered scarifier helps clear moss, thatch and old organic matter fast.
Reseed bare spots
Choose seed that suits the area. Use shade-tolerant grass under trees and tougher blends for high-traffic zones. Sow evenly, cover lightly with soil or compost and keep moist until established.
Feed and water with consistency
Apply a slow-release fertiliser. Water early in the morning or late afternoon. Keep moisture steady while grass recovers.
Improve drainage
Mix coarse sand or compost into heavy soil. This helps water move through the ground rather than pooling on the surface. Seasonal top-dressing supports long-term improvement.
Control pests early
Use eco-friendly solutions or beneficial nematodes to target grubs before damage spreads.
Treat fungal problems
Apply a suitable systemic fungicide to stop disease and protect healthy grass.
Protect new growth
Mark off recovering areas. Keep feet, pets and mowers away until the grass strengthens.
Mow gently
Keep blades sharp. Avoid cutting too short. Regular, light trims help grass thicken.
A lawn takes time to recover. Patience and steady care pay off. Work with your conditions and adjust habits as needed. The reward is an even, resilient lawn that lifts the whole garden.
For more lawn care advice and tools, visit www.husqvarna.co.za
