GREEN GREEN GRASS
The essential task you need to do before October so your grass survives winter
Plus how often you should mow your lawn this autumn/winter
NOW is the time to act if you want your lawn to survive winter.
Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager from explained how is the perfect time to rejuvenate your lawn and prepare it for winter dormancy so it can return lush and vibrant in the spring.
2
2
Why is Autumn Lawn Care Important?
Summer’s heavy foot traffic and activities can leave your lawn in less-than-perfect shape.
Soil compaction, bare spots, and poor nutrition are common problems after a season of fun in the sun.
The wet spring was also a double-edged sword for our lawns. While the increased moisture can promote growth, it can also lead to problems like waterlogging, fungal diseases, and moss.
Neglecting autumn lawn care could lead to a patchy, unhealthy lawn next year—something no gardener wants.
READ MORE GARDENING STORIES
Guy added: "We recommend you start your lawn TLC in September to give your grass ample time to recover before the cold sets in.
"The earlier you start, the better your lawn will be equipped
to handle winter’s challenges."
Autumn lawn care tasks
Aeration
The expert said: "Aerating your lawn involves creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots.
"By encouraging deeper root penetration, helps your lawn become
more resilient and vibrant.
Most read in Fabulous
"While you can aerate with a garden fork, a hollow-tine aerator is
more effective, especially for severely compacted or clay soils.
"After aerating, apply a top dressing to fill the holes and improve the soil structure. A good top-dressing mix includes three parts sandy loam, six parts sharp sand, and one part compost or leaf mould," Guy added.
Flattening
Guy explained: "Dips and bumps in your lawn can cause water to pool, leading to flooded areas and potentially damaging your grass.
"High-traffic areas are particularly prone to this, and autumn is the ideal time to smooth out your lawn’s surface, ensuring it is ready to handle winter weather.
"Use a spade to carefully lift the turf in these areas, revealing the soil beneath. Adjust the soil level by adding or removing as needed, ensuring a smooth surface.
"Roll your turf back into place, pressing down the edges firmly to secure it.
My garden was a mud patch - I transformed it to a lush, thick lawn with a Poundland buy & I'm shocked at the difference
"Water the area thoroughly to aid in root growth and re-establishment, this will help prevent any winter flooding but also enjoy a smoother, healthier lawn come springtime."
Scarifying
"Over time, a layer of thatch—composed of dead grass, moss and weeds can build up on your lawn, especially as we have had a very soggy year!" Guy remarked.
"This layer acts like compacted soil, preventing water and oxygen from reaching the grassroots as the thatch competes for
nutrients.
"Scarifying is the process of removing this thatch layer to improve your lawn’s health.
"Start by using a rake to remove any surface-level thatch. For deeper-rooted thatch, a scarifier is the ideal tool. Carefully work the scarifier or rake over your lawn, ensuring you don't go too deep and damage the turf."
Seeding
Guy continued: "After scarifying, your lawn might appear thin or patchy.
"Overseeding or reseeding involves spreading new grass seed over your existing lawn to fill in bare spots and encourage denser growth.
"Choose a high-quality grass seed mix suitable for your lawn’s needs.
"At Johnsons Lawn Seed, we offer a range of blends designed
for different conditions.
"Evenly distribute the seed across the lawn, focusing on thinner areas. Gently press the seed into the soil to ensure good contact.
Read More on The Sun
"Maintain consistent moisture through regular, light watering until the new grass is established.
"Overseeding in autumn allows the new grass to develop strong roots before winter, resulting in a vibrant, lush lawn come spring," he added.
How often should you mow your lawn in autumn/winter?
As temperatures fall, your lawn's growth will naturally slow down.
Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager of Johnsons Lawn Seed explained...
"Regular mowing remains crucial for maintaining its health and preparing it for the colder months.
Gradually increase your mower's cutting height to protect the grass from frost and cold weather.
Ensure your mower blades are sharp to prevent tearing and dehydration.
By following the rule of never cutting more than one-third of the grass blade's length at a time, you willpromote healthy growth.
Regular mowing, even as growth slows, helps keep your lawn neat
and reduces the risk of disease."
Topics