As the chilly weather is here, lawns across the UK face the strain of frost, moisture loss and reduced sunlight. However, without proper care, grass can become brittle, discoloured and more prone to damage.
To help homeowners maintain healthy lawns through the coldest season, Tom Clamp, head of technical at Doff has shared his expert advice on how to keep the garden lawn in tip-top shape this winter.
Clamp said: “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.”
These are the five simple techniques to keep a garden lawn healthy through the winter including having the right mowing routine and using the right fertiliser.
Adapt a mowing routine
As temperatures drop, it’s crucial to adjust how you mow. “In autumn, aim to leave your grass slightly longer than you would in summer,” advises Clamp.
“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.”
Use the right fertiliser for winter resilience
Now is the perfect time to strengthen the lawn with the right nutrients. Clamp said: “Winter-specific fertilisers contain less nitrogen, reducing the risk of soft growth that’s vulnerable to winter conditions.
“These fertilisers focus on building strong roots with phosphorus and enhancing cold resistance with potassium. Some also include trace elements like iron, which keeps your lawn looking green even in colder weather.”
Water sparingly but effectively
While it might seem unnecessary to water during winter, a little can go a long way. “During dry spells, deep watering encourages deeper root growth, which helps your lawn survive the winter,” explains Clamp.
“Just be careful not to overwater, as waterlogged soil can increase the risk of fungal diseases.”
Essential winter lawn care tasks
In addition to mowing and feeding, there are a few other important tasks to help your lawn endure the winter months.
Clamp suggests: “Scarify the lawn if you notice a build-up of thatch or moss as this will improve the flow of water and nutrients to the roots.
“Aeration is also key. Making small holes in compacted areas allows air, water and nutrients to penetrate the soil more effectively.
“Finally, keep your lawn clear of fallen leaves and debris, as these can trap moisture and invite in disease.”
How to revive a damaged lawn
If the lawn is already showing signs of winter stress, don’t worry. “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 7°c and the risk of frost is lower,” he advised.
“Overseeding any bare or thinning patches will help restore your lawn’s density, and a good quality feed will promote quicker recovery.”
