Low temperatures in the winter can result in your grass blades freezing and breaking, leaving your once-thriving grass to die out. Whether your region has experienced ice, snow and/or your garden has just been walked over a lot over the past few months, this added stress to your lawn has likely impacted its health.
These weather conditions can lead to compacted soil and restricted airflow. However, if you’re looking for a thriving lawn come spring, there are some key steps you need to follow now. Peter Chaloner, managing director of Cobra lawnmowers, has shared his expert advice for bringing your grass back to life, ensuring you’ve got a lush lawn this spring season. This includes the very first task of getting rid of moss and debris that can stop new grass growing.
Scarify
The first tip is to scarify your lawn, using a scarifier or rake to remove any buildup.
Over the course of the winter, things like moss and debris can accumulate and prevent new grass from growing, but following this step will allow for fresh air and nutrients to reach the soil.
Aerate for healthy roots
Having compacted soil can restrict both oxygen and water from getting to the roots of the grass, therefore helping it to grow and receive the nutrients it needs.
By aerating your lawn, it ensures better drainage and healthier growth, which can easily be done with a garden fork or aerator.
Overseed patchy areas
Throughout the winter, you can start to notice your lawn may be patchy, but to bid farewell to these gaps, it’s important you overseed the thinner, bare areas in the early days of spring.
Opt for a grass seed blend that suits the type of soil you have for best results and water it often to help the new grass grow.
Feed with a spring fertiliser
To replenish any of the essential nutrients your grass has lost over the winter, a well-balanced spring fertiliser will do just the trick. By applying a slow-release fertiliser, you will help to promote not only stronger roots but also vibrant green growth.
Tackle weeds early
Weeds are constantly in competition with grass for nutrients, and so by applying a pre-emergent herbicide, you can ensure you’ll have a healthier lawn in the spring. Alternatively, manually removing weeds before they have a chance to take hold will also help your grass to thrive as the temperatures rise.
Mow with care
The first time you mow your lawn in the spring should be done gently, making sure your mower is on its highest setting so as not to cut the grass too short. Giving the lawn a gentler trim encourages new growth and maintains an even surface.
Monitor moisture levels
The showers throughout spring can sometimes lead to waterlogging, which inevitably suffocates the grass roots.
In order to improve drainage, it’s recommended that you aerate compacted areas and avoid over-watering the grass.