How to Guides
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Problems & Solutions
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2 January 2026
Common Lawn Problems and How to Fix Them
A thick, green lawn is something most home gardeners aim for, but even the best-kept lawns can face problems. Find out how to fix them.
From weeds and moss to pests and bare patches, these issues can quickly take over if not tackled properly. Fortunately, with a bit of attention and the right products, you can bring your lawn back to its best. Here’s how to fix the most common lawn problems using A1 Lawn’s high-quality range.
Weeds Taking Over
Weeds like dandelions, clover and daisies compete with grass for light, nutrients, and space. Left alone, they spread fast and make the lawn look untidy.
Fix it:
- Apply a selective weedkiller such as A1 Lawn Feed, Weed & Moss Killer. It kills common broadleaf weeds without harming your grass and feeds the lawn at the same time.
- Mow regularly to prevent weeds from flowering and seeding.
- Strengthen your lawn with a high-nitrogen fertiliser like Ultimate Slow Release Fertiliser (14-1-7) to help the grass grow thick and crowd out weeds.
For tips on how to treat common lawn weeds, read our How to Control Common Weed Grasses guide.
Moss in Damp or Shaded Areas
Moss thrives where grass struggles: compacted soil, shade, or poor drainage. It forms dense mats that smother grass and make the lawn uneven.
Fix it:
- Kill the moss with an iron-based treatment like Maxicrop Moss Killer. Once it turns black, rake it out.
- Aerate and scarify the lawn to improve airflow and drainage.
- Reseed bare areas using Shade and Drought Grass Seed for better regrowth under trees or fences.
- Feed the lawn after moss removal to help it recover.
Dealing with recurring moss? Our Controlling Moss in Lawns guide covers everything you need to know.
Thatch Buildup
Thatch is a layer of dead grass and roots that can block water and nutrients from reaching the soil. Too much thatch leads to poor growth and a spongy surface.
Fix it:
- Scarify the lawn in spring or autumn to remove thatch.
- Don’t leave clippings on the lawn every time you mow.
- Reseed thin areas and feed with a balanced lawn fertiliser to help grass bounce back.
Pale or Yellow Grass
If your lawn is losing its green colour, it’s likely due to nutrient deficiency, especially a lack of nitrogen.
Fix it:
- Use a high-nitrogen fertiliser like A1 Lawn Spring Summer Fertiliser to boost green growth and colour during the warmer months.
- Water it in well to help nutrients reach the roots.
- Looking ahead to autumn, plan to switch to A1 Lawn Autumn Winter Fertiliser, which is lower in nitrogen and higher in potassium to support root strength and prepare the lawn for winter.
To understand what to feed your lawn and when, check out our How to Fertilise a Lawn guide.
Lawn Pests (Grubs & Insects)
Chafer grubs and leatherjackets live in the soil and damage grass roots, leading to yellow patches and bird activity as they dig for food.
Fix it:
- Use nematodes like Biological Lawn Pest Control to kill grubs naturally in late summer.
- Try Repel Natural Pest Repellent to deter egg-laying.
- For severe infestations, professional-use products like Acelepryn are available (check usage restrictions).
- Spot problems early to avoid widespread damage.
Bare or Patchy Spots
Foot traffic, pets, pests, or poor growing conditions can leave patches in the lawn.
Fix it:
- Rake the area to loosen the soil and remove debris.
- Apply Patch Repair Grass Seed and water daily until established.
- Choose a mix suited to your lawn type, like Multi Purpose Grass Seed, a great all-rounder for family lawns.
Learn how to restore those patches in our How to Patch Repair or Thicken Your Lawn guide.
Pet Urine Patches
Dog urine causes small yellow or brown circles with dark green edges. It’s due to concentrated nitrogen burning the grass.
Fix it:
- Rinse the area with water straight after your dog wees, if you catch it in time.
- Rake out dead grass and reseed with a patch mix.
- Designate a toilet area if possible to avoid repeated damage.
Struggling with this issue recently? Read our How to Repair Burn Patches from Dog Urine guide.
Worm Casts and Mole Hills
Worms are good for the soil, but their casts can smudge the lawn surface. Moles bring up unsightly piles of soil while tunnelling for grubs.
Fix it:
- Let worm casts dry, then brush them off.
- Remove mole hills and reseed any damaged patches.
- Consider sonic deterrents or natural repellents to discourage moles.
Keep Your Lawn Looking Its Best
Lawn problems are common, but they don’t need to be permanent. With A1 Lawn’s professional-grade fertilisers, grass seed, and treatments, you can fix most issues quickly and effectively. Stick to seasonal feeding, overseed where needed, and act early when you spot moss, weeds or pests. A healthy lawn is easier to maintain – and much nicer to look at.
Browse our full range:
For best results, always follow product instructions carefully. If you need any specific guidance, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly expert team.
