Three Steps To Repair A Bumpy Lawn

A bumpy lawn makes it difficult to mow, and it can also pose a tripping hazard when you are playing or working in the yard. Fortunately, most bumpy lawn issues can be repaired.

1. Determine the Cause

There are several possible causes for a bumpy lawn. The most likely is that ruts have formed from mowing in the same pattern every week. Another common cause is drainage issues. Water may be sitting on top of the soil or just beneath the surface, creating low areas and voids that result in bumpiness. Water issues often lead to severe bumpiness in winter, when freeze-thaw cycles further disturb the ground.

Pests may also lead to a bumpy lawn. Grubs and other sub-soil insects can feed on roots, leaving voids that collapse and create an uneven surface. Moles and other digging mammals can also be the culprit.

2. Fix the Root Issue

Once you know the cause, you can address it so the problem won't continue. Changing your mowing pattern each week may solve the problem, and requires next to no effort. If drainage is resulting in bumpiness, you may need to have perforated drain pipes installed in the lawn to route water away safely. Or, it may be necessary to reroute downspouts or change your watering habits so pools of moisture don't collect on the lawn.

When pests are the issue, you may require outside assistance to solve the problem. Lawn grub treatments are often completed in late summer or fall so that the grubs can be destroyed before they successfully overwinter in the lawn. Mole and gopher issues will require a more in-depth removal program that is best carried out by a professional.

3. Level the Ground

Once the cause of the bumpiness is handled, you can have the lawn leveled so it is no longer uneven. For minor issues, you can have the problem fixed without tearing out the turf. Your lawn service will apply a topdressing of soil and compost over the bumpy areas, filling them in so they are level. The grass will be allowed to grow through the topdressing, and then more will be added. This process will continue every few weeks until the lawn is level.

For severe bumpiness, you may need to have the turf removed and the surface of the lawn dug and regraded so it is level. Often, the lawn service can cut and store your turf during the process, which means it can be quickly replanted once the leveling is complete.

Contact a lawn care service like Rock Solid Services LLC if you need more help with leveling a bumpy lawn.