Thanks for the reply. I'll have a word with the builders but it seems that
TLC is the only answer short of re-laying.

There's no evidence of builders stuff being left but I am doubtful as to the
quantity and quality of the supposed topsoil.

I'll start with an Autumn feed and see how it goes.

Regards,

David
"Robert E A Harvey" wrote in message
om...
"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?

Hmm.
First of all, go and talk to the builder. If you have bought a new
house you are entitled to a good lawn, not a neglected one. Would you
have let him get away with damaged paintwork or a misscoloured toilet
suite? Talk to your soliciter, briefly, as well about what rights you
have over the builder.

Next, if despite all the late summer rain it still looks dry and
patchy there is little hope for the grass you have. Is there any
evidence that piles of timber etc. were left on it thus killing it? I
would expect the soil to be moist at the moment, unless you live a
long way from the bits of the UK I have seen lately.

Lastly, this is the right time of year for seeding. A little grass
seed would not be too expensive, and with luck you won't have to water
it much!