Before we bid farewell to October and welcome November with its chillier weather and shorter days, there are several lawn tasks that need to be ticked off in preparation for this period.
Even though the lawn might not be at the forefront of every homeowner’s mind, it certainly shouldn’t be left to brave the cold months on its own.
Steve Taylor, Grass Guru at GreenThumb, the UK’s premier lawn care brand, has emphasised the significance of garden upkeep during the colder months to ensure your lawn is primed to flourish come spring.
He stated: “While our lawns may be dormant, a little care can go a long way. Taking a few proactive steps now will set the stage for a healthy lawn when warmer weather arrives.”
Remove items from your lawn
Steve’s initial tip is to remove your outdoor furniture and other items from your lawn. If left out and unused these hefty objects can create dead spots, causing the grass to look stunted and thinner come spring.
Clear away fallen leaves
Steve advised: “Fallen leaves can block sunlight and air, both of which are essential for your grass’ survival. They can also create damp conditions on your lawn, which can foster fungal growth so possibly disease along with some moss growth. Be sure to rake up any fallen leaves to protect your lawn’s health.”
Mulch your garden
After dealing with fallen leaves, Steve recommends repurposing them as mulch. He advised: “Shredded leaves not only prevent soil erosion but also act as a barrier against weeds, making it a simple and effective way to enhance your garden’s health this autumn.”
Watch for signs of distress
Steve emphasised how crucial it is to monitor your lawn for any troubling indicators. Issues such as snow mould and moss can establish themselves in the chilly climes, so addressing these concerns promptly is key.
He added: “If you do spot any signs of distress on your lawn, I’d always recommend calling a lawn care professional for their advice. Remember a good lawn is always a healthy lawn so endeavour to keep all feeding programmes up to date too.”
Autumn/winter long treatment
For those keen to maintain their lawns throughout the colder spell, Steve said: “If you really want to look after your lawn this winter, I’d advise GreenThumb’s autumn/winter long treatment.
“Unlike regular treatments that encourage growth, this one strengthens your grass for winter, managing moss and preparing your lawn for the challenges that the winter months can bring.”
He added: “A little attention now can lead to a beautiful lawn in the spring. Stay proactive, and your grass will thank you when the sun shines again.”