Renovating an old lawn – re-turfing or sowing new seed.

Renovating an old lawn can be done through re-turfing or sowing new seed. Here are some steps for each method:

Re-turfing:

1. Begin by removing the old lawn. This can be done with a lawn cutter, a spade or a hoe.
2. Once the old grass is removed, rake the area to remove any debris, stones or roots.
3. Check the soil pH and adjust it if necessary. You can do this by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
4. Add a layer of topsoil to the area, about 4 inches deep, and rake it smooth. This will provide a good base for your new lawn.
5. Lay the new turf over the prepared area, starting at one end and working your way across. Lay the turf in a brickwork pattern, staggering the joints.
6. Once the new turf is laid, water it thoroughly to help it establish roots.

Sowing new seed:

1. Begin by removing the old grass, as described above.
2. Rake the area to remove debris, stones and roots.
3. Check the soil pH and adjust it if necessary.
4. Add a layer of topsoil, as described above.
5. Choose a grass seed that is appropriate for your region and soil type. Follow the instructions on the seed packet for the recommended amount of seed per square foot.
6. Sow the seed over the prepared area, using a seed spreader or by hand. Rake the seed into the topsoil.
7. Water the area lightly to keep the soil moist until the new grass grows in.

Both methods can be successful, but re-turfing can provide quicker results as you already have a mature lawn. However, sowing new seed can be more cost-effective and allows for more variety in grass types.