The bushes and shrubs in my front yard have become incredibly overgrown. They're blocking the windows and making the house look unkempt. I need to prune them back significantly.

If large areas are completely bare, consider lightly re-seeding those spots, ensuring proper seed-to-soil contact.

Ensure you are planting seeds at the depth and spacing recommended on the grass seed packaging.

A very thin layer (1/8 to 1/4 inch) of compost or fine topsoil can help improve moisture retention and seed contact.

Gently rake the seeded area to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, then lightly roll or walk over the area to firm it up.

A soil test can accurately determine nutrient levels and pH, guiding more precise fertilization.

Use a fertilizer with a higher first number (N-P-K ratio) to provide essential nitrogen for greening and growth. Follow product instructions carefully.

Use your finger to check soil moisture. If it feels dry an inch down, it's time to water.

Water more frequently (lightly, multiple times a day) during the germination phase, ensuring the top inch of soil remains consistently moist. Once established, gradually reduce frequency and increase duration.

If the deterioration is widespread and structural components are compromised, a full deck replacement might be the most cost-effective long-term solution.

Thoroughly sand down the deck surface to remove splinters and old finishes, then apply a new protective stain or sealant.