WHY DO WE NEED TO RENOVATE OUR LAWNS?

 

Benefits Include:

• Relief from compaction
• Thatch removed to allow better oxygen flow and nutrient / water uptake.
• Healthier turf stand
• Allows better drainage through core aeration
• Creates a more level surface

LAWN RENOVATION STEPS

Only Renovate When Lawn is Actively Growing Starting Early September-January with Warm Season Lawns.
(For Cool Season lawns renovate early Feb - early March)

 

Scalping 

Use your Rotary Mower for this (Don’t be as aggressive with Buffalo).

Core Aeration

Hire out a machine e.g: https://www.kennards.com.au/lawn-corer-petrol.html     

Scarify Two directions 

 (this helps the soil thatch layer).

Topdressing

Use washed pit sand, 90/20, 80/20 or a sandy loam. Make sure it’s washed to avoid weed seeds in your mix.   

Fertilising  

Use a fert that has a bit more kick. I recommend either Lawn Tips Dominate to help extra nitrogen or Reinstate which is designed for lawn renovations and repair.        

Pre-emergent and Insecticide Treatment (This can be done before or after renovation)

Once you renovation is complete you can apply your pre-emergent and insecticde to help prevent weeds and pests for 6 months. My two favourite options are Barricade or Spartan (pre-emergents) and Acelepryn (insecticide)

How To Treat Your Lawn After a Renovation

• Water a little more than usual. Aim for every two days. I usually recommend you “baby it back to health.” Sand can dry out your lawn quickly.
• Do your first mow with a rotary mower when the lawn has grown through most of the sand. 

When Can I Go Back To Normal Practices?

Once your lawn has grown through and nearly filled in completely you can go back to your normal routine.

• Mowing 1-2 times a week (if you can)  
• Watering your lawn with ½”-1” of water per week (depending on the season) always water ½” each time you water.
• Fertilise every 8-10 weeks with a slow release fert. Lawn Tips Dominate or Stimulate are great options for season long use. 
• Use a wetting agent once every 3-4 weeks because of the Australian Conditions. (will help save water)