Planting For Perfection - Lawns

17 Mar, 2025

Whether you’re starting a new lawn or maintaining an existing one, autumn is the perfect time to get started. The cooler autumn temperatures and intermittent rainfall will allow your lawn to get established before the cold of winter sets in. With a little planning and care, you’ll enjoy a beautiful lawn year-round.

Starting a New Lawn

When starting a new lawn, preparing your garden is key. Smooth out any uneven spots, remove rocks and weeds, and break up any lumps of dirt. To give your lawn the best start, add a layer of Living Earth Lawn Mix before sowing seed. Choosing the right lawn seed is essential. Consider the light conditions in your lawn area and the type of soil you have. If you’re unsure which seed to choose, our expert team instore are available to help you select the best variety for your garden.

Now it’s time to sow! Read the packet instructions carefully, as each seed variety may require slightly different handling. For an even covering, divide your seed into two portions. Spread one half moving from north to south, and the other half from east to west. Once the seed is sown, cover with a thin layer of Living Earth Lawn Mix or gently rake the area.


Caring for Your Lawn

Once you’ve sown your new lawn, it’s important to focus on consistent watering to encourage strong root development. Lightly water the area frequently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Once the grass has reached around 5cm in height, it’s time for the first mow. Only remove a small amount of grass for the first few cuts. After the first mow, feed your lawn with a fertiliser specifically designed for young grass, such as Tui LawnForce New Lawns, and water thoroughly after application.

For established lawns, care requirements will depend on the weather. During warm, dry spells, water deeply once a week. In wet and humid conditions, reduce watering and monitor for fungal issues, spraying if needed. Always ensure your lawn is well-watered before fertilising or applying any sprays to prevent damage to the grass. Fix bare spots in your lawn with a few simple steps. Remove weeds and loosen the soil with a fork. Add a thin layer of Living Earth Lawn Mix, then apply Burnet’s EzyStart Lawn Starter. Finally, sow seed over the prepared area and water well to promote germination.

Kings Top Tip

Add a bird feeder near to your freshly sown lawn. This will stop birds from eating your lawn seed, as they'll have an alternative snack to enjoy.

What You'll Need to Grow Well

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