G'day, Nikolai here from The Lawn Firm. If you want a healthy lawn, you need to start from the ground up - literally. Over the years, working across Canberra, I’ve seen how vital soil health is to lawn performance. Even the best fertiliser or watering schedule won’t do much if the soil underneath isn’t right. Here’s what you need to know about managing soil health and pH to get your grass growing strong.

Why Soil Health Matters

Healthy soil is alive, it’s full of microbes, nutrients, and organic matter that support root growth. In Canberra, the soil tends to be clay-heavy and often compacted, which means less oxygen and poor drainage. That’s where we come in.

By improving soil structure and adjusting pH levels, we create the perfect environment for strong roots and consistent, healthy growth.

Testing and Interpreting Soil pH Levels

Soil pH controls how well your grass can absorb nutrients. In Canberra, lawns often suffer from acidic soil, which locks out key nutrients like phosphorus and calcium. That’s why I always recommend soil testing before starting any treatment.

A simple pH test lets us know whether your lawn needs lime (to raise pH) or other amendments. Getting this right sets the foundation for everything else.

Fixing Common Soil Issues in Canberra

Apply Lime: If your soil is too acidic, lime helps balance it out.
Use Gypsum: Ideal for breaking up heavy clay and improving drainage.
Apply Wetting Agents: These help water soak into dry or hydrophobic soil.

These aren’t guesswork - we use these tools with precision, based on your lawn’s actual condition.

Improving Soil with Organic Additions

Beyond chemical fixes, I’ve found that adding compost and bio-stimulants builds stronger soil over time. These natural treatments encourage microbial activity, feed the lawn gently, and improve structure. It’s one of the best ways to support long-term lawn health.

Why Let The Lawn Firm Handle It?

Understanding soil is more than just reading a pH strip, it’s about knowing what to do with the results. My team and I use the right tools and methods to improve your soil, based on years of experience with Canberra lawns.

We focus on lasting results. No quick fixes, just a straightforward, proven approach that delivers healthy, low-maintenance lawns.