New-Build Lawn Problems: Turn Builder’s Soil into a Lush Lawn in Chichester

Why new-build lawns struggle

• Compacted subsoil from machinery.
• Thin topsoil layers or rubble contamination.
• Poor grading → puddles and dry patches.

Your renovation roadmap

1. Health check: Probe to 10–15 cm—if you hit hardpan quickly, compaction is likely.
2. Hollow-tine aeration (or deep spiking) to open the soil.
3. Topdress with quality loam/compost blend to boost organic matter.
4. Overseed with rye/fescue mix; press seed to soil and keep evenly moist.
5. Starter feed 4–6 weeks later (not too heavy).
6. Re-grade severe hollows/bumps; consider levelling and partial returfing.

Aftercare for year one

• Mow little and often (never remove more than one-third).
• Water deeply (not daily sprinkles).
• Autumn aeration & overseeding to thicken before winter.

When to returf: If turf was laid on sub-25 mm topsoil or over builders’ waste, full lift-and-relayer may be most cost-effective.

We specialise in new-build lawn recovery across Chichester, Tangmere, Fishbourne and Emsworth. Get a tailored quote.