Recently laid sod 4 weeks ago and ground is uneven, there are some bare patches and already weeds – help?

Question

I am in Toronto (Canada) and recently had my lawn redone (by someone who in hindsight I wouldn’t hire again) and got new Kentucky Bluegrass​ sod laid. It was laid 4 weeks ago and I have some issues that I need advice with:

– There’s one fairly big bare patch (about 20 inches by 9 inches) and a few other smaller ones – see Pics 1 and 2. Would it be better to transplant new sod to fill these or would seeding be better ?

– The lawn doesn’t seem to be level – even though the grass seems to be full, it feels bumpy and uneven underneath the grass in some areas – would using a lawn roller be helpful or would the grass eventually settle? (The guy didn’t run a roller after installing the sod)

– There’s already some weeds in certain sections (see Pic 3) – what should be my approach be – just pull out the weeds and add more seed ?

– There’s one patch that has turned a lighter green in colour and seems to look a bit different than the rest of the lawn (see pic 4)

Finally I would appreciate any advice on what I need to do between now and winter to maintain my lawn and investment and have it survive the harsh winter.

Thanks!

Answer 1

There are several things here.

First, yes, rolling your lawn can be very helpful. I would say that doing this before you attempt to fix the bare spots will help quite a bit. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/how-to-roll-out-a-grass-lawn.htm

This article will give you other information on how to fix your uneven lawn: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/fill-uneven-lawn-low-spots-how-to-level-a-lawn.htm

As far as weeds go… The clover, though it can take your yard over, will feed your yard if kept in check. Otherwise, a broadleaf herbicide will do well. Trees, like the small seedling in the photo should be pulled up, or mowed weekly. This article will show you how some weeds in the garden can be helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/your-weedy-lawns-is-a-good-thing.htm

And this article will help you to maintain your lawn: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/tips-for-improving-the-lawn-and-reducing-maintenance.htm