Why Is My Lawn Always Wet? Simple Fixes for a Soggy Lawn in Calgary

A soggy lawn in Calgary can turn your yard from a relaxing space into a muddy mess. Whether it’s after a big rainfall, spring snowmelt, or overwatering, standing water can suffocate your grass, attract pests, and cause long-term damage to your soil.

If your lawn squishes when you walk on it, it’s time to take action. At Greener Grass, we’ve helped countless Calgary homeowners deal with soggy, waterlogged lawns and restore proper drainage through aeration and soil care. Let’s look at why this happens and what you can do to fix it—without making things worse!

Why Is Your Lawn So Soggy?

There are a few common culprits behind soggy lawns in Calgary:

Poor Drainage – Heavy clay soil, compacted ground, or uneven areas trap water instead of letting it drain.
Overwatering – Sprinklers running too long or too often can waterlog your yard.
Thatch Buildup – A thick layer of dead grass and roots prevents water from soaking into the soil.
Low Spots – Even a small dip can collect water after rain or melting snow.
Heavy Foot Traffic – Over time, walking or driving over the same areas compacts the soil and blocks air and water movement.

In Calgary, where soil often contains a high percentage of clay, this problem is pretty common—especially in newer neighbourhoods where lawns haven’t fully settled yet.

How to Fix a Soggy Lawn

1. Check Drainage and Grade

Start by looking at how your yard slopes. Water should naturally flow away from your home and not collect in one area. If needed, fill low spots with a soil and sand mix to even things out.

2. Try Lawn Aeration

If your soil is compacted, lawn aeration is one of the most effective fixes in Calgary. Aerating involves removing small plugs of soil so air, water, and nutrients can reach the roots. This helps water drain better and gives your lawn space to breathe again. It’s best done in spring or fall when the soil is moist but not too wet.

3. Reduce Watering

If your sprinklers run daily, try cutting back. Most Calgary lawns only need watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Make sure your system is set to water deeply, not frequently.

4. Dethatch and Overseed

Thatch acts like a sponge—it holds water and blocks drainage. Dethatching your lawn once a year helps keep things balanced. After dethatching, overseed to encourage thicker, healthier grass that absorbs water more evenly.

5. Improve Soil Health

Clay-heavy soil can be improved by mixing in compost or topdressing with organic matter. This creates better drainage and helps beneficial microbes thrive.

6. Consider Drainage Solutions

If sogginess persists, you might need a more advanced fix, such as installing French drains or a dry well to redirect water. A professional can assess your yard and suggest the best long-term solution.

Preventing Future Problems

Once your lawn has dried out, it’s important to stay proactive to prevent future problems. Regular lawn aeration in Calgary helps keep the soil from becoming compacted again, allowing air and water to flow freely. Avoid overwatering and adjust your irrigation schedule based on the season and rainfall.

Adding compost each year improves soil texture, boosts nutrients, and enhances drainage. Finally, keep an eye on your yard’s grading—if water starts pooling in certain spots, fill them in or adjust the slope to keep your lawn healthy and balanced year-round.

The Greener Grass Approach

At Greener Grass, we know soggy lawns can be frustrating. Our lawn aeration services in Calgary are designed to restore proper drainage, improve soil health, and help your grass grow stronger. With regular aeration and smart lawn care, you can say goodbye to puddles and hello to a healthy, resilient lawn that’s ready for any season.

Book us today!