BBC Monty Don’s simple tip to make lawns 'grow back thicker than ever'

Many gardeners pride themselves on their neat and tidy lawns, but sometimes grass growth can be hindered, leading to patches and even disease.

Moss are small flowerless plants which have no true roots, stems or leaves hence why they can grow in areas which most other plants cannot, but it’s most common in lawns, as well as on patios and between paving slabs. Because it competes with the grass blocking light and restricting airflow, a thick carpet of moss can leave grass looking unsightly.

Sharing several gardening jobs that need to be carried out this season, gardening pro Monty Don has detailed how to get the “best grass”, including the “answer to removing moss", as reported by the Express.

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The BBC Gardeners' World host said "the best grass” likes very well-drained soil, and moss is “always a symptom” of poor drainage, made worse by shade. Unfortunately, even the best-prepared soil becomes compacted by matted roots, rain and, especially, normal family use.

Monty, 68, said the solution is to work on it at least once a year by sticking a fork in the ground and wiggling it about and repeating the process every six inches or so. This is what’s known as aeration.

Monty then recommends gardeners mix up equal portions of sieved topsoil, sharp sand and sieved leaf mould or compost, before mixing it across the area you have made holes in. You should then brush it with a stiff broom to ensure the holes are filled, as this will “help drainage and feed the grass”.

Monty also recommends giving the lawn a good scratch with a wire rake. He said: “This will get at all the overwintering thatch and moss, and let light and water get to the soil and to the roots of the grass.”

Gardeners should then put the debris on the compost and then mow. The expert added: “It will look a little bald for a week or so but will grow back thicker than ever.”

When mowing, make sure not to cut the grass too short as this will stress the grass reducing its vigour and encouraging moss.

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