Bring the MCG to Your Backyard: DIY Lawn Cricket Pitch
There’s nothing quite like a game of backyard cricket. With a little planning and the right lawn care, you can create a greener, smoother playing area that is ready for family matches, weekend barbecues and plenty of “Howzat!” moments.
You do not need a stadium-sized backyard, either. Work with the space you have, protect nearby windows and garden beds, and follow these simple steps to get your lawn match-ready.
Feed Your Lawn Before Play
A healthy backyard pitch starts with strong, actively growing grass. Feed the lawn ahead of your next match with Scotts Lawn Builder™ Extreme Green Lawn Food.
It feeds for up to three months and greens the lawn in just three days. Apply it evenly and follow the label directions, particularly during hot weather. For the best result, give the lawn time to respond before the first ball is bowled.
Help Water Reach the Roots
Rain and regular watering will only help if the moisture can soak into the soil. If water tends to pool or run off your lawn, Scotts Lawn Builder + Wetting Agent Lawn Food can help water and nutrients penetrate the soil more effectively while feeding the grass.
Water deeply rather than giving the lawn frequent, shallow sprinkles. Early morning is generally the best time to water because less moisture is lost through evaporation.
Choose a Safe Playing Area
Pick the largest, flattest section of lawn available. On a smaller block, placing the pitch diagonally can create a little more room between the wickets.
Before setting up, look for uneven ground, irrigation fittings, rocks and other trip hazards. Position the pitch so the main hitting direction is away from windows, cars, garden beds and neighbours.
Mow Without Scalping the Lawn
A slightly shorter strip can create a neater playing surface, but avoid taking the mower straight down to its lowest setting. Removing too much grass at once can scalp and weaken the lawn.
Lower the mowing height gradually over several cuts and never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. Keep the mower blades sharp, collect any heavy clumps of clippings and leave the surrounding lawn at its normal height.
Help the Pitch Recover
Backyard cricket can place extra wear on the turf, especially around the crease and bowling area. Once the season winds down, aerate compacted sections and repair any dips or worn areas.
Apply a light layer of Scotts Lawn Builder Top Dress 25L, rake it evenly into the lawn without burying the grass blades, then water thoroughly. This organic-based lawn soil contains slow-release fertiliser and a wetting agent to support stronger recovery.
Watch for Lawn Pests
Bare or thinning patches can have several causes, including wear, poor watering, disease or lawn pests. Check the grass and soil carefully before choosing a treatment.
If lawn grubs or other listed lawn insects are confirmed, Scotts Lawn Builder™ Lawn Grub + Insect Slow Release Fertiliser can control common lawn pests while feeding the grass. Always read and follow the label directions, and avoid applying it within two metres of ponds, creeks, dams or drains.
Ready to Play?
Add a set of wickets, mark out your boundary and invite the neighbours over. Your backyard may not have the grandstands of the MCG, but a healthy, well-prepared lawn can still set the scene for an unforgettable match.
Game on!
