Winter lawn care tips: Before winter sets in, it is important to give your lawn one final mow. Grass growth slows down as temperatures drop, so a shorter length going into winter helps prevent matting under snow or frost (Image: Canva)
As the chill of winter approaches, preparing your lawn for the colder months is essential to ensure its health and vibrancy come spring. A well-maintained lawn can withstand the harsh winter conditions and bounce back beautifully when the temperatures rise again. With a few key steps, you can protect your lawn from the effects of frost, snow, and freezing temperatures.
Here are the best tips to help you get your lawn ready for winter:
- Mow the lawn one last time
Before winter sets in, it is important to give your lawn one final mow. Grass growth slows down as temperatures drop, so a shorter length going into winter helps prevent matting under snow or frost. Aim to mow your grass to a height of around 5 centimetres. This height strikes the perfect balance—it is not too short to expose roots to the cold but not too long to risk fungal growth from excess moisture.
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- Clear fallen leaves and debris
Fallen leaves and other debris can smother your grass and block essential sunlight. If left unattended, they can create a damp, dark environment conducive to fungal diseases, such as snow mould. Make a habit of raking up leaves and removing debris from your lawn throughout autumn. Not only will this improve your lawn’s appearance, but it will also ensure that it is receiving the necessary light and air circulation for a healthier winter season.
Aerating your lawn is a critical step in promoting better soil health before winter. Aeration involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the root system. This process reduces soil compaction, improving drainage and helping the roots absorb essential nutrients before the ground freezes. Early autumn is the best time to aerate, giving the grass time to recover and strengthen its root system ahead of winter.
- Fertilise with a winter-friendly formula
Applying a slow-release fertiliser designed for winter is an effective way to nourish your lawn during the colder months. These fertilisers are specially formulated to provide your grass with the nutrients it needs to endure winter dormancy. Look for a fertiliser with a higher potassium content, which strengthens grass and improves its ability to withstand stress, cold, and disease. Be sure to fertilise after aerating for maximum absorption.
- Water until the ground freezes
While you may be tempted to reduce watering as the weather cools, it is important to continue providing your lawn with moisture until the ground freezes. Grass roots still need hydration to stay healthy, even in colder temperatures. Aim to water your lawn in the early morning to avoid frost buildup and to give the soil time to absorb the water before nightfall. Once the ground has frozen, you can stop watering until spring.
If your lawn has developed thin or bare patches over the summer, autumn is the ideal time to overseed these areas. Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over existing turf to thicken up the lawn and improve its overall health. Choose a hardy, winter-resistant grass seed blend, and apply it generously to any sparse patches. Be sure to keep the newly seeded areas watered and fertilised to encourage strong root growth before winter arrives.
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Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that can accumulate on the soil surface. While a small amount of thatch is beneficial, too much can prevent water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots. Before winter, use a rake or dethatching tool to remove any excess thatch. This will improve your lawn’s ability to absorb water and nutrients, ensuring it stays healthy during the colder months.
- Avoid heavy traffic on the lawn
During the winter months, it is crucial to avoid walking on your lawn when it is frozen or snow-covered. Foot traffic can compact the soil and damage the grass, making it harder for the lawn to recover in spring. Create designated pathways for walking, and try to keep heavy objects like garden furniture off the grass during the winter season.
