Lawns

I don’t think so as in the cogs were already fitted to the mower. I will cut the grass shorter with the Flymo next time then will try the manual mower after on a shorter lawn.

Thanks for the advice. No sheep available. I wonder if I can train the dog? I'm going to cut and rake. See how the grass fares and put down weedkiller if needed.

Hi, I’m in central Scotland, Bridge Of Allan, will get some pictures posted, thanks

You're welcome. Gardens are like paintings, there's always something that can be added or adjusted but it's knowing when to stop. If at anytime you get bored and you fancy a busman's holiday in the Highlands, there is still plenty to do in my garden.

I think meadow grass has been used for your turf and the seed is courser than that used for a lawn, which is why it looks different to your neighbour's. I got caught out with this many years ago and since have seeded my own lawns when necessary.I don't believe what you have been told. If you...

I never cut mine shorter than about 1.5 inches, despite the rain here. Most people in wetter areas [certainly round here] scalp grass because they know the rain will arrive soon and the grass will grow quickly again. Not a great idea IMO. It's healthier if cut little and often, and yes - we...

When you carry out the first cut depends entirely on the weather after the lawn is sown or laid.The grass needs to be a minimum of 4 inches tall, and your mower needs to be on its highest setting before cutting. Just the tips of the grass should be removed and collected. I would never strim a...

Didn't think of that!

It is possible to seed earlier in the year but you will need to water constantly to keep the seed growing. The weather is usually much wetter later so no need to water. Birds are always a problem with seeding, that is why it is recommended to sow thickly. However a thin layer of sieved topsoil...

My OH is really the lawn expert and has had a petrol mower ever since we were married (over 45 years). He's a traditional type and likes the stripes (so do I) and has always had a Suffolk Punch model. I think they've now been superseded by Allett, not cheap last time I looked. I'm sure there are...

Yes, topsoil is better for grass seed. I also put a thin layer on top of the seed and then walk on it to ensure it is in contact with the soil below. This also hides the seed from birds, apart from pigeons .

Wait and see is the gardener’s motto.

Have you considered removing more of the grass to create a decent sized border @GardenJoy? You wouldn't notice the shallow problem area as the foliage of plants nearby will spread outwards to cover it. You could also cover the border with bark to complete it. That's what I've done alongside my...

Can anyone recommend a treatment for Nutsedge in my lawn. You Tube says Sedgehammer is the best treatment but it's incredibly expensive. Can anyone recommend an alternative ?

Thank you I'm just going to try it on the back lawn now as it's become an annoyance to look at! I bought a large bag so will have enough for a second application if it warms up again!

Premium topsoil - sometimes that just means no stones. No reason why you can’t just use only soil (only up to an inch in depth in case you smother existing grass). Just makes the surface more lumpy, hence the sand. But a little soil probably won’t improve things by much, especially if there is...

Turf is OK this time of year but will need regular watering. Seeds can be used in the Autumn.What is good for young kids is a tough variety of grass. They still need to be kept off the turf for just a few weeks in order to let it establish.

I would wait at least until the seed has germinated and grown enough so that it is firmly anchored by its roots so that won't be disturbed by spreading more soil etc, and the new grass has long enough leaves that they will still have a decent amount showing above the dressing.

On my back lawn I have a big clump of tall red clover and one of yarrow, I mow around them carefully! On the front I am getting lots of self heal, which is a beautiful plant.