Spring overseeding with ETF – renovation tips

G’day team,

Hope everyone’s having a good week. This time of year is pretty miserable here – my lawn gets bugger all sun over winter, so it’s looking pretty dreary. Roll on spring!

I’m keen to get some different opinions on renovation processes for this spring. My lawn is currently mostly NZLA ETF, with a small amount of Ultimate Tall Fescue still hanging around that I’m gradually trying to phase out.

I’ve done three renovations now with decent results, but I’m always looking to improve. My current plan is:

– Mow low (although I definitely won’t be repeating last autumn’s “professional” scalp… turns out that was an amateur move.)
– Scarify (maybe – there’s not much thatch, but I know it creates a nice seedbed)
– Core aerate (love my NZLA aerator)
– Overseed with ETF
– Apply starter fertiliser
– Topdress

For topdressing, I’ve previously used Biorich’s Supersoil mix here in Hawke’s Bay. It works well, although it’s a little barky. I’m also considering using sand instead to fill the core holes and gradually build a more sand-based soil profile to improve drainage.

Has anyone had good long-term success topdressing with just sand over ETF seed? My only concern is moisture retention and germination, especially as I don’t have irrigation and rely on moving sprinklers around by hand. It’s worked reasonably well so far just moving them by hand, but it’s definitely a labour of love.

I know this is fairly similar to Jonny’s renovation guide, and it’s obviously a proven method, but I’m always keen to hear what others are doing differently and whether there are any tweaks you’d recommend.

Photo is from summertime. Missing my stripes and absolutely ready for some warm weather in the coming months. Happy Tuesday, Addicts.