How to fix bare patches in newly laid lawn?

swarn

Hi All

Please rfer to the attached photos showing patches in my green grass lawn.

Could you please advise on the possible cause of these patches and recommend solutions to fix them? The lawn was installed approximately 6 weeks ago and has not been mowed yet.

Let me kow if need further details.

Thanks in Advance
Swarn

EricL

Hello @swarn

From the photo, the patches running along the fence line look very typical of new turf drying out unevenly rather than disease or pests. Because the lawn is only about six weeks old and hasn’t been mowed yet, the roots are still shallow and the area next to the fence is often the first to struggle. Timber fences reflect heat, block airflow, and most importantly they commonly create poor sprinkler coverage, so that strip receives less water than the open lawn. You can also see the soil showing through, which suggests the turf in that strip hasn’t knitted down properly and may be sitting slightly higher or drying faster. This is very common with newly laid turf and usually not a major issue if addressed early.

The best fix is to increase watering specifically along that fence line for the next few weeks, so the soil stays consistently moist, not just the grass blades. It helps to hand water that strip after your normal irrigation cycle because sprinklers often miss the edge. Lightly press or roll the turf back down if any sections feel loose, then top-dress the thin areas with a light layer of sandy lawn underlay or topsoil brushed into the grass to help it root and fill in. Once the lawn reaches mowing height, give it the first mow with sharp blades and remove only a small amount, which will encourage lateral growth and help those thin patches thicken. Within a few weeks of consistent moisture and the first mow, those areas should start filling in and blending with the rest of the lawn.

However, should they fail to recover, please bring your docket along with the pictures of your lawn to the store where you purchased lawn from and speak to the gardening specialist. They will assist you in regards to the areas where the lawn has not recovered.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric