Mow often enough so that you remove no more than 1 3 the height of the grass blade at one time.
Matted down dead grass.
Level the area to ensure that the sod will be laid down flat to avoid future issues.
When the cycle of decomposition is delayed for any variety of reasons dead matter will begin to build up.
How to repair.
Do not leave any clumps on the lawn.
It is important not to remove all of the grass but just break up the top layer of thatch.
If the soil is particularly poor work in a little compost or similar organic matter.
Clear out any dead matted turf and other debris.
How to repair snow mold fungus and winter die out thatch follow me on my episode of what s wrong with my lawn.
Grass is matted down.
Mowing too short weakens the grass plant making it more susceptible to infection.
As the build up increases the dead matter becomes stacked and then packs down or matts and causes healthy grass blades to become stressed and weaken.
Get rid of dead grass.
Rake the dead areas to loosen any brown grass.
Lay down the sod and water immediately and regularly.
Too many grass clippings could be left from your first mowing as well.
The grass will germinate and root best when it comes into direct contact with soil.
This too could be a fungus problem according to chad diller marketing coordinator for tomlinson bomberger a lawn care.
Over the winter your grass was probably matted down and flattened as snow and ice piled up.
Maintain your mower properly a sharp blade prevents ragged cuts.
Remove the loose dead thatch either with a lawn mower by hand or with an outdoor vacuum.
Mow when the grass is dry and change the mowing pattern each time you mow to avoid establishing a grain.
Lay down a thin layer of good quality top soil we suggest bigyellowbags nature s blend for best results.
Don t just toss seed on.
To do so rake up and remove all of the brown dead grass.
At least scratch the surface or better yet dig and loosen the top 2 or 3 inches.
The best balance is less than half an inch of clippings because.
While the grass will start to rise again as spring continues some of it may have died.