If you’ve always wanted to grow a lush, green lawn but you’re not having much success, the problem could be soil compaction. Grass does not grow well in compacted soil.
Don’s tip
Simply stamp your foot on the ground! If it feels fairly hard underfoot, it indicates that the soil is compacted.
What to do
If the compacted area is only small you can aerate it using a garden fork, or hire a power aerator or a coring machine. Before planting or sowing, scuff up the bare spot, adding extra soil if necessary. Either take runners from the edge of the lawn and plant them in the bare spots, or sow grass seed. For large areas, Don recommends using a rotary hoe and then laying turf or sowing seed. (Choose a lawn variety suitable for your climate and situation). Another alternative is to lay down some stepping stones or paving, particularly in high traffic areas.
Further information
Rotary hoes, lawn corers and aerators can be hired for around $85 per day.