A lush, healthy lawn is the staple of a gorgeous garden and a sign of a dedicated and skilled gardener. But it takes year-round care, and each season demands different preparation, especially the winter!
While UK gardening enthusiasts are being urged to let their lawns go wild to boost nature, some worthwhile tips can get your lawn ready for the summer. By giving it the attention it needs now, you can ensure it survives over the winter and emerges healthier and stronger in spring.
Here are some of the basics of lawn care during the colder parts of the year:
Why are we prepping over winter?
Cold weather can be tough on grass and winter brings some of the harshest conditions for our gardens. Taking steps to strengthen it in autumn will give it the best chance of survival. Aerating and fertilising plant roots should be a priority since it packs them full of the nutrients and oxygen they need to survive the dropping temperatures.
A balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium helps your grass become more resilient to frost. Aeration reduces soil compaction and ensures roots have oxygen when the ground freezes.
Weed and Pest Control
Autumn is a great time to tackle any common garden weeds and pests that could harm your lawn over winter. Applying environmentally friendly herbicides during this season can prevent weeds from returning in the spring, saving you future time and effort.
Many insects are particularly active during the autumn months, feeding on the roots of your grass before going dormant in winter. Applying pest control treatments now reduces the number of pests that can damage your lawn when it’s most vulnerable.
Improved Soil Quality
You need to be conscious about what’s happening below the soil and do what you can to improve soil health. One of the simplest ways is to rake up fallen leaves and remove any debris from your lawn. This prevents a thick layer of organic material that can suffocate your lawn from building up. This also helps you reduce the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in damp, cluttered conditions.
Thicker and Healthier Lawns
Overseeding is an effective way to fill in bare spots and thicken your lawn. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall in autumn provide the perfect conditions for seed germination and new growth. Your grass can establish itself before winter and lead to a consistent, denser lawn by spring.
Maintenance
Every lawn needs a touch-up every now and again. Taking the time to care for it during the colder months significantly reduces the amount of work needed in the following season. You need proper lawn care tools to achieve the best results. A little effort can go a long way, whether you’re trimming the borders or distributing fertiliser.