How to Repair a Grass Lawn

Loosen up the soil in the area that needs repair. Till four to six inches deep. Remove the old grass, if possible, along with weeds, stones and sticks. If there are any soil clumps, break up those larger than 1 inch in diameter. Others can be left alone.

Add one inch of compost and one inch of sand on top of the native soil. These amendments will add nutrients and improve drainage. Till the compost and sand into the top of the native soil until combined evenly.

Spread a starter fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote quick growth. Set the spreader to the rate specified on the fertilizer package.

Spread an even amount of grass seed to encourage proper germination. Too few seeds result in a sparse lawn and too many cause competition for nutrients. The seed package specifies how much seed you need per square foot.

Spread seed with a mechanical spreader if you're repairing a large section of lawn. For smaller areas, use a hand spreader.

Mix the grass seed into the top of the soil with the back of a metal rake.

Water the new grass lawn for five to 10 minute intervals, two or three times a day. Continue this routine for 10 days. Reduce watering to once a day for 15 to 30 minutes.