ASK DIARMUID

QI have a backyard area covered with 18”x 18” flagstones that I would like to replace with a lawn. Would I need to put a membrane down to stop weeds coming up? Also, can you recommend a good quality grass seed?

Allen Simm

AI’d advise against putting down a membrane. The big thing you have to take into account is that the ground underneath the stone slabs will be very compacted so lots of digging will be needed to loosen it and enhance the drainage qualities of the soil. Remove any stones and weeds by hand. After that, tread the soil firmly to create a nice seedbed and sprinkle No 3 which is a good hard-wearing mix of seed that produces a good result. Wait until the ground warms up a bit in April/may before doing the sowing.