'David',

Are there gaps between the turfs which would indicate that at some point
they were starved of water during a drought, although that is somewhat
unlikely during the past twelve months.

Prise up part of one of the most affected turfs to see whether its roots
are dead or, more hopefully, that they have penetrated the topsoil.

In the meantime I suggest that you water it thoroughly in the hope that
it will spring to life. It is surprising how a lawn which looks dead
gradually comes to life again when it receives proper care.

Should you get a favourable response, I suggest that you, keep it moist,
'feed and weed' it in April and set the mower fairly high until the
grass has established itself.

I suggest that you give it twelve months to recover and then make an
assessment as to its future.

Regard,
Emrys Davies.





"PDES" wrote in message
...
I've just bought a new house where the lawn was turfed a year or so
ago.
Unfortunately, the builders neglected it and it looks very dry, patchy
and
straw-like. I understand that the lawn was laid on topsoil so would
expect
there to be no serious nutrition problems. How can I restore the lawn
to a
short, dense lush covering?

Regards

David