Based on all the questions I have been asked over the past few weeks, it is clear there is some confusion over the various steps that need to be taken each year to ensure healthy lawns.
Poor drainage is the primary reason moss thrives and is best remedied by proper aeration, which means using either a hand or machine operated aerator to remove plugs of soil. Once its applied, be sure to water it in, or apply just before a rainfall. Follow this up in ten to twelve weeks with another application to maintain the green.
The trick going forward is to mow low and in a different direction each time which will allow the grass to stand up and not be continually pushed down in one direction. In wetter coastal areas this is especially important to avoid matting and prevent thatch problems. For the best success, you should scratch up the bare spots with a hand rake, apply a layer of washed sand blended with peat moss, and then scatter your seed. Lightly rake in and keep moist for ten to fourteen days. You will need to babysit your new grass until it’s up and growing well.