Lawns across the UK face the strain of frost with the chilly winter months slowly approaching due to moisture loss and reduced sunlight.
Grass can become brittle, discoloured, and even more prone to damage without proper care.
To help homeowners maintain lush, healthy lawns through the coldest season, Tom Clamp, head of technical at Doff, a manufacturer of premium garden care products, has shared his expert advice on how to keep your lawn in tip-top shape this winter.
He explained: “Winter brings several challenges for lawns, from frost damage to nutrient depletion.
“Left unchecked, these issues can weaken your grass, making it harder for your lawn to recover in spring. But with a few simple adjustments, you can protect your lawn and ensure it remains resilient throughout the season.”
Alter mowing routines
As temperatures drop, it’s crucial to adjust how you mow. Tom advised: “In autumn, aim to leave your grass slightly longer than you would in summer.
“Longer blades provide more insulation and are better at withstanding frost. Also, be sure to sharpen your mower blades – ragged cuts can lead to brown edges and make your lawn more vulnerable to disease.”
Revive damaged lawns
If your lawn is already showing signs of winter stress, don’t worry as Tom has the perfect solution.
He advised: “If your grass is looking a bit worse for wear, the best time to start repairs is early autumn or spring when soil temperatures rise above seven degrees and the risk of frost is lower.”
He recommends overseeing any bare or thinning patches and using a good quality feed as this will “promote quicker recovery”.
By following this tip, Tom said: “You can help ensure your lawn stays green, healthy, and ready to flourish when spring arrives. A little preparation now will save you time and effort in the long run, ensuring your lawn bounces back stronger than ever.”
Scarifying and aerating lawns
In addition to mowing and feeding, there are a few other important tasks to help your lawn endure the winter months – two of which are scarifying and aerating. This will improve the flow of water and nutrients to the roots.
Water lawns
While it might seem unnecessary to water during winter, a little can go a long way. Tome explained: “During dry spells, deep watering encourages deeper root growth, which helps your lawn survive the winter.”
Just be careful not to overwater, as waterlogged soil can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
