Monty Don's Guide to Removing Lawn Moss and Growing Thicker Grass

If your lawn is patchy, spongy, or covered in moss, adjusting your gardening routine could transform it. Moss is a common issue in UK gardens, thriving in spots where grass struggles to grow. However, moss is more than just a nuisance—it often signals underlying problems in your lawn’s conditions.

Monty Don advises that one simple but essential task can help eliminate moss and encourage your grass to grow thicker than ever. According to Monty, healthy grass prefers well-drained soil, while moss often indicates poor drainage, especially in shaded areas.

Over time, soil becomes compacted due to footsteps, weather, and family activity, making it difficult for grass roots to access air and nutrients. To combat this, Monty recommends aerating your lawn at least once a year by poking holes about every six inches with a garden fork. This process loosens compacted soil, improving drainage and root health.

After aerating, nourish your lawn by spreading a homemade mix of sieved topsoil, sharp sand, and either sieved leaf mould or compost. If some ingredients aren’t available, sharp or silver sand alone will still help. Brush the mixture into the holes with a stiff broom to enhance drainage and provide essential nutrients.

Additionally, a wire rake is useful for removing moss, thatch, and debris that block light and water from reaching the soil. Monty highlights that this raking will leave your lawn looking a little bare temporarily but will lead to stronger, denser grass growth shortly after.

By dedicating time to these straightforward spring lawn care steps, you can reduce moss, improve soil health, and enjoy a lush, vibrant lawn. If moss persists despite these efforts, applying Iron Sulphate—recommended by lawn care specialists—can be an effective treatment. When used as directed, it quickly kills moss, darkening it for easy removal and helping restore your lawn’s vitality.

Monty Don’s Guide to Removing Lawn Moss and Growing Thicker Grass