Winter lawn care is not just about tucking your garden away until spring. It’s a time to nurture and protect your turf, ensuring it remains strong and resilient amidst the cold and frost.
For winter lawn care from December to February, each season will offer unique challenges and opportunities, so lets guide you through essential steps and expert tips to keep your lawn at its best during this season.
DECEMBER LAWN CARE TIPS
December is all about protecting your lawn, so remember to keep the area brushed and raked free from debris. This not only maintains a tidy appearance but also ensures that you don’t attract too much moisture, which can lead to disease and pest infestations.
An application of fungicide from any reputable garden centre can be particularly beneficial in safeguarding your lawn during the winter months. Consider adding this step to your routine for an extra layer of protection against potential fungal issues.
The frequency of mowing should significantly decrease during this time to allow your lawn to enter a dormant phase. However, if you happened to miss the end-of-season mowing, choose a dry day for this task. Mowing on a dry day prevents the grass from being too damp, reducing the risk of disease. Aim for a slightly longer grass length to provide insulation against the winter chill.
Over sowing with a little Inturf Classic Seed at a rate of 15 grams per square metre can be a strategic move, especially if there’s an unseasonal mild spell. This step enhances the resilience of your lawn, promoting healthy growth in unexpected weather conditions. Additionally, a light dressing of fertiliser at a rate of 30 grams per square metre will help protect the turf against the vagaries of winter, fortifying it against the potential challenges of bad weather.
Remember, it’s essential to keep off the turf during wet and frosty weather. Walking on frozen grass blades can cause damage, and the excess moisture during wet weather can contribute to compaction issues. By incorporating these tips into your December lawn care routine, you’re setting the stage for a vibrant and resilient lawn come spring.
JANUARY LAWN CARE TIPS
January demands a thoughtful approach to preserve the health of your lawn. While the grass may seem dormant, a few essential tasks will ensure it thrives when springtime arrives.
If the weather permits, consider aerating the surface of your lawn using a solid tine spiking machine or, in smaller areas, a garden fork. This process promotes better soil aeration, allowing nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. It’s a beneficial practice to alleviate soil compaction, fostering a healthier lawn in the long run. As you aerate, be sure to keep the surface free from leaves, twigs, and other debris. This not only maintains a clean appearance but also helps keep the turf dry, reducing the risk of disease during the colder months.
While January typically sees a slowdown in lawn growth, you may find the need to mow your lawn once or twice during the month. It’s advisable to do so to maintain a regular height of cut and ensure your lawn stays neat and uniform. However, always choose a dry day for mowing to avoid causing damage to the grass in wet and frosty conditions. Aim for a slightly higher cut to provide insulation against winter weather, and use a sharp blade to achieve clean cuts that minimize stress on the grass.
In addition to these tasks, consider applying a winter fertiliser to provide your lawn with essential nutrients. This extra boost can fortify the grass, promoting a lush and vibrant lawn when spring arrives. Remember, a healthy lawn in winter sets the stage for a stunning green landscape in the warmer months ahead.
FEBRUARY LAWN CARE TIPS
As February unfolds, the same procedures that have safeguarded your lawn in the previous months remain crucial. If there is a hint of spring in the air, you might consider increasing the mowing regularity to four times this month. This practice ensures that your lawn stays well-manicured, and any clippings are promptly removed. Regular mowing also helps stimulate grass growth and maintains a consistent height, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your lawn.
In anticipation of the upcoming spring, over-sowing with a bit of Inturf Classic Seed remains a strategic move. This extra effort can provide you with a head start in the early spring, especially if temperatures begin to climb. The added grass seed enhances the density of your lawn, promoting a lush and vibrant carpet of green as the weather warms.
For an extra boost of nutrients, consider another application of fertiliser. This step contributes to the long-term health of your lawn, providing a sustained release of essential nutrients that support steady growth and resilience. Applying the fertiliser in February sets the stage for a robust and vibrant lawn as the growing season approaches.
As you continue to care for your lawn, don’t forget to regularly brush the ground, but only if it’s dry enough. This practice helps remove any lingering leaves, twigs, debris, or worm casts. Keeping the surface clear supports a healthier lawn by reducing the risk of disease and promoting optimal growing conditions.
With these considerations, your lawn is on track for a thriving spring and summer.
Your winter lawn care tip
Each winter month presents its unique challenges and opportunities for your lawn. By following these tips your lawn will remain at its best during this season. In December, focus on protecting your lawn from moisture and pests, while in January, prioritise aeration and mowing on dry days.
February maintains the same procedures, and if hints of spring appear, increase mowing frequency and consider over-sowing for a head start in the coming season.
