Ready to fix those bald spots in your lawn? Late summer and early fall's cooling air and warm soil help new seed get off to a good start. Here's how:
How to repair bald spots in your lawn
By: Garden Gate staff

Step one
Start by using a leaf rake to comb out any dead material and debris.

Step three
If your rake doesn’t scratch deep enough, repeatedly poke the area with a fork to expose more soil.

Step five
Then cover the seed with a thin layer of topsoil or compost before tamping the area with the back of a rake so the seed makes good contact with the soil.

Step two
Then find a garden rake, also called a “bow rake,” to bring some fresh soil up to the surface.

Step four
Following quantity instructions on the label, lightly sprinkle grass seed over the rough areas.

Step six
Add a few handfuls of straw and water in well. This final layer keeps seed in place, protecting it from washing out. The straw will help conserve moisture, too.

Step one
Start by using a leaf rake to comb out any dead material and debris.

Step two
Then find a garden rake, also called a “bow rake,” to bring some fresh soil up to the surface.

Step three
If your rake doesn’t scratch deep enough, repeatedly poke the area with a fork to expose more soil.

Step four
Following quantity instructions on the label, lightly sprinkle grass seed over the rough areas.

Step five
Then cover the seed with a thin layer of topsoil or compost before tamping the area with the back of a rake so the seed makes good contact with the soil.

Step six
Add a few handfuls of straw and water in well. This final layer keeps seed in place, protecting it from washing out. The straw will help conserve moisture, too.