May
Transition Time – From Renovation to Rest
Note: For the close season months of May through July, the tips will largely remain the same.
The work you’re able to carry out in May will be shaped by the weather, so it’s important to keep an eye on long-range forecasts and plan ahead where possible. If conditions allow, you can now begin major tasks such as:
• Scarification.
• Sand dressing.
• Overseeding.
• Decompaction.
In the weeks following these tasks, you should introduce your granular fertiliser programme to support recovery and growth.
Start Your Seeding Programme
With renovations underway, now is the time to begin your seeding programme. Getting the timing right is critical — especially if you don’t have a reliable irrigation system.
For seed to successfully germinate and establish, it needs:
• Adequate temperature.
• Oxygen.
• Water.
• Light.
Soil contact is key. For best results, use a disc spreader to apply seed evenly and press it into the soil, rather than using hand or broadcast methods.
Protect and Nourish New Seed
Seed requires a lot of nutrients during germination. If your budget allows, use germination sheets, especially in high-wear areas like goal mouths. These help trap moisture and warmth, speeding up establishment. If germination sheets aren’t available, use netting or fencing to prevent foot traffic and deter animals from disturbing the surface.
Mowing New Growth
Once the new grass reaches around 40mm in height, it’s a sign that roots have taken hold and the first cut can take place. Remember:
• Never cut more than a third of the grass height in a single mow.
• Alternate mowing direction each time to avoid compaction and improve plant health.
If you notice brown patches (scalping), try raising the cutting height. White-tipped grass (whisping) could mean your blades are blunt, you're mowing too fast, or the grass is too wet when cut.
Manage Moisture Wisely
As temperatures rise and rainfall becomes less frequent, smart watering becomes essential. You’ll need to prevent your renovation work from drying out, especially in high-traffic areas.
Follow these watering best practices:
• Water overnight or during the cooler parts of the day (morning or evening).
• Use deep, infrequent watering to encourage deeper root growth.
• Prioritise dry or stressed areas like penalty spots and goal mouths.
You’re aiming for moisture to reach a depth of at least 6 inches, to encourage deep root growth, rather than shallow surface watering.