As Summer gradually gives way to Autumn, it’s time to shift our focus to a different aspect of lawn care. As the days grow shorter and the temperature starts to drop, your lawn requires special attention and tailored maintenance to thrive during this transitional season.
Let’s take a look through those autumn months and exploring the key steps and strategies you need to ensure your lawn remains lush and healthy. From September to November, we’ll break down each month, providing valuable tips to keep your turf in top-notch condition.
SEPTEMBER LAWN CARE TIPS
As the summer heat begins to ease and temperatures drop slightly, September offers an excellent opportunity to work in your lawn. The warmth of the soil combined with the cooler air creates ideal conditions for laying turf and tackling any lawn repairs. Whether you’re filling in bare patches, addressing uneven areas, or starting a new lawn project, this month is perfect for ensuring healthy grass growth before the colder months set in.
General Lawn Maintenance
- Mowing – Keep mowing your lawn regularly, but adjust the cutting height slightly higher than in summer. This will help protect the grass as it begins to slow its growth.
- Aeration – If your lawn has become compacted over the summer, consider aerating it to improve air circulation, water absorption, and root growth. Aerating (or spiking) a lawn helps the grass withstand periods of drought or waterlogging by improving the movement of air and water among the roots. The simplest way to aerate is by spiking the lawn with a garden fork, spacing each set of holes 10–15cm apart and going as deep as possible, ideally to the full depth of the tines. For larger lawns, focus on areas that receive the most wear or are heavily compacted, and aim to aerate a different section each autumn to ensure full coverage over time.
- Seeding Bare Areas – For any patches of grass that didn’t thrive in summer then look to overseed them now. Top dressing with a light layer of topsoil and adding a mixture of grass seed into this soil can help these patches. With sufficient moisture and cooler weather, new seeds establish quickly.
Turf Laying and Repairs
September’s mild conditions make it one of the best months to lay new turf. Whether you’re creating a new lawn or replacing worn-out sections, the combination of warm soil and manageable rainfall provides the perfect environment for roots to establish. If you’re considering turf, explore our high-quality options like Classic turf or RTF turf to achieve a durable, beautiful lawn.
If rain is in the forecast when you’re looking to make repairs then don’t worry, turf can still be successfully laid in wet conditions with a few adjustments. Check out our guide to ‘Laying Turf in the Rain‘ for tips on achieving the best results.
Dealing with Worm Casts
Worm casts are a common sight in autumn lawns but do indicate healthy soil. Their presence can disrupt the even appearance of your lawn, we advise to focus on brushing away worm casts when they are dry. This minimises disruption to your grass while maintaining the ecological benefits worms provide. For a deeper dive into managing worm casts, check out our blog – Worm Casts in Lawns.
OCTOBER LAWN CARE TIPS
With the days gradually becoming cooler in October, it’s time to adjust your mowing routine. While regular mowing begins to wind down, it’s essential to remain attentive to the length of growth and mow as necessary to keep your lawn in optimal shape.
One of the crucial tasks for October is to keep your lawn free from debris and fallen leaves. It’s essential to clear them promptly to prevent suffocating the grass and allowing for proper air circulation.
A further smaller application of fertiliser may prove useful to really harden the grass plant off for the winter months. By doing so, you’ll be ensuring that your lawn can endure the colder months and emerge lush and vibrant come spring. When applying fertiliser, aim to do it just before rain is forecast. Follow the rate specified on the packet, usually about a handful per square metre, and scatter it as evenly as possible. For larger areas, consider using a lawn-feed spreader with a trough calibrated to the correct application rate to ensure even coverage.
If rain doesn’t arrive within a day or two, water the fertiliser in thoroughly to prevent scorching the grass and to help nutrients reach the roots.
Timing is key when applying fertilisers, so make sure you maintain a four-week gap between your September and October applications of fertiliser. This spacing allows your lawn to absorb the nutrients effectively without risking excessive growth or potential nutrient imbalances.
NOVEMBER LAWN CARE TIPS
As autumn gracefully nears its end, November calls for a thoughtful approach to lawn care to ensure your turf remains in top condition as winter approaches. This month presents a mix of challenges and opportunities, requiring a keen eye and gentle touch to keep your lawn thriving.
During frost-free and fairly dry periods this month, mow the area as and when necessary – the blades now set at their highest level. This longer grass length provides added protection for the root system and helps your lawn stay resilient against the colder temperatures.
Always remove debris from the surface to help prevent disease. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other garden clutter can accumulate quickly during this season, creating an ideal breeding ground for harmful diseases and pests. To learn more about identifying and managing these pests, visit our guide ‘Insect Grubs Found in Turf‘. Understanding the signs of an infestation and taking appropriate action can help protect your lawn’s health throughout the colder months.
Common questions on autumn lawn care
Should I use a lawn fertiliser in autumn?
Yes, applying a lawn fertiliser in autumn is highly recommended. Autumn fertilisers are specifically designed to prepare your lawn for the colder months, promoting strong root growth and improving resilience against winter weather. Use a fertiliser with lower nitrogen levels and higher potassium content to strengthen the grass without encouraging excessive top growth.
Should grass be cut in October?
Yes, you can cut your grass in October, but it’s important to adjust your mowing routine. Raise the cutting height to leave the grass slightly longer than usual, as this helps it retain strength and resist frost damage. Avoid cutting the grass if it’s wet or frozen, as this can harm the lawn.
Is it OK to lay turf in autumn?
Autumn is one of the best times to lay turf. The combination of cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall provides ideal conditions for the turf to establish strong roots before winter. At Inturf, we grow premium-quality turf that is perfect for autumn laying, ensuring a lush and healthy lawn year-round.
Your autumn lawn care tips
It’s essential to adapt your lawn care routine come autumn. In this comprehensive guide, we explored the key steps to maintain a lush and healthy lawn from September to November. Looking at decreasing your mowing frequency, keeping the lawn clear of debris and applying a smaller dose of fertiliser. This thoughtful approach to autumn lawn care will ensure a resilient and beautiful turf throughout the season.
