Gardeners are being urged to revive tired lawns this spring using a simple reseeding method, as experts say April is the ideal time to restore grass so it grows greener and thicker ahead of summer.
According to advice from Dobbies Garden Centres, reseeding worn or patchy areas of lawn during mid-April can significantly improve growth, provided the ground has been properly prepared and temperatures begin to rise.
The technique involves sowing fresh grass seed onto soil that has been levelled and firmed, helping to fill in bare patches and encourage denser coverage.
Experts say this should be done once the soil is no longer too cold or waterlogged, conditions that can prevent seeds from germinating.
April marks a key turning point in the gardening calendar, with longer days and warmer weather creating ideal conditions for both lawns and plants to thrive. However, gardeners are warned not to be caught out by lingering cold snaps, as frost can still occur early in the month.
Alongside reseeding, lawncare should include the first cuts of the year, keeping grass slightly longer at around 4cm for the initial trims. Removing moss and dead grass using a spring-tine rake, a process known as scarifying, can also improve airflow and allow nutrients to reach the soil more effectively.
Experts say feeding the lawn at this time of year can further boost growth, while clearly defined edges can enhance the overall appearance of outdoor spaces, particularly in smaller gardens.
Beyond lawns, April is also a crucial month for planting. Gardeners are encouraged to sow a wide range of vegetables, including carrots, parsnips and Brussels sprouts, which can be ready in time for winter harvests. It is also the last opportunity to start crops such as tomatoes and chillies from seed before the growing season advances.
Flower planting is also in full swing, with hardy annuals like marigolds and sweet peas suitable for beds and borders, while spring bedding plants such as pansies and violas can add instant colour to pots and containers.
Despite improving weather, experts advise keeping tender plants protected until the risk of frost has fully passed. Gradually acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions, known as hardening off, can help prevent damage before they are permanently planted out.
With a mix of preparation, planting and maintenance tasks, gardeners who make the most of April are likely to see stronger growth and healthier plants in the months ahead, setting the stage for a more vibrant garden in summer.
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