Why Your Lawn Looks Worse Before It Looks Better

…and Why That’s a Good Thing)

If your lawn is booked for Lawn Refresh (scarification, over-seeding treatment and soil improver), you might be wondering what to expect. The process can look a little harsh at first but it’s the start of a healthier, greener, thicker lawn.

Our team have renovated many lawns, the process can look brutal in the beginning, but follow our after-care guidance and it won’t be long before your lawn is looking lush, green and amazing. A successful renovation is made up of 10% Greener Gardens and 90% your care and watering.

Why these treatments matter

Scarification removes thatch and moss, allowing air, water and nutrients to reach the roots. Over-seeding adds fresh, professional-grade grass seed to fill gaps and create a denser, healthier lawn. Together, they help:

  • Wake up dormant grass plants.
  • Repair dry or bare patches.
  • Break through compacted or water-repellent soil layers.
  • Reduce disease risk.

Your role in recovery

The most important job you have is watering.

  • Keep the soil damp for the first 3 weeks. Daily watering with a sprinkler is best.
  • Mow when new grass is 3–5cm tall, using sharp blades and a high setting.
  • Be patient — patchy growth at first is normal.

The result will be a healthier, more resilient lawn you can enjoy for seasons to come.


Post Treatment Recovery Guide

Watering

  • Weeks 1–2: Water daily with a sprinkler for 20–30 mins per area. Avoid puddling.
  • Week 3 onwards: Water 1–2 times a week for 20–30 mins, depending on weather.
  • Hand-watering isn’t enough — aim for deep, even coverage.

Mowing

  • First cut when grass is 2–4cm high.
  • Use sharp blades and set mower high; remove no more than 30% of growth.
  • Collect clippings; cut in a different direction each time.

Patience Pays Off

  • Autumn germination with correct watering will take 7–10 days.
  • Restrict use of the lawn for 3–4 weeks to allow roots to strengthen.
  • Your care = 90% of the success!

Our office

32 Mowbray Gardens

West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6JN

24 hours / 365 days

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri 9.00 - 17.00

Out of hours telephone service

Where we operate

We operate North and South of the River Trent and East towards Newark. Many of our customers are located in: West Bridgford, Radcliffe on Trent, Bingham, Cotgrave, Tollerton, Keyworth, Ruddington and North of the River: Beeston, Chilwell, Wollaton, Bramcote, Nottingham, Mapperley and Arnold.