Overview

• Specialists advise a focused autumn routine of scarifying to remove thatch, aerating compacted areas, overseeding bare patches, top-dressing, and applying an autumn feed.
• Use a low‑nitrogen fertiliser with higher potassium and phosphorus to build strong roots without forcing soft growth that struggles in frost.
• Keep mowing through autumn at a higher cutting height and stop only when growth ceases, avoiding cuts in wet or frosty conditions.
• For aeration, spike the soil 10–15cm deep with a fork or aerator to improve airflow and drainage, and brush in kiln‑dried sand or topdressing to keep channels open.
• Experts say September and October are optimal for recovery after summer heatwaves and restrictions left many UK lawns with scorched, thatchy and bare areas, with new seed typically sprouting within about two weeks.