As Bonfire Night on November 5 draws near, many homeowners might be planning to host firework displays or bonfires in their own backyards.
Both of these activities can potentially harm your lawn, necessitating extra care and attention to your garden in the days following Guy Fawkes night.
In addition to post-event garden care, there are several preventative measures you can take prior to Bonfire Night that will minimise any potential damage from bonfires or fireworks. Lawn expert Steve Taylor from GreenThumb, the UK’s top lawncare brand, has offered his best advice for maintaining your lawn during bonfire festivities.
While he suggests that those particularly worried about lawn damage might be better off avoiding using their garden as a venue for celebrations, there are several strategies to safeguard and look after your lawn if you choose to host a gathering.
Steve’s initial advice is to invest in a fire pit instead of having a conventional bonfire, explaining: “Using a fire pit will not only turn your bonfire party into a stylish gathering spot, but it will also keep the flames contained and protect your grass.”
“Plus, fire pits come in a wide variety of designs and styles to match different tastes and spaces.”
If you decide to go for a more traditional bonfire, Steve has provided some tips for choosing the right location, recommending that it should be set up away from your lawn.
He elaborated: “When burning, stick to dry organic garden waste and avoid too many leaves as they can create smoky chaos. And always check for hidden hedgehogs before lighting up too.”
Regarding fireworks, Steve’s guidance is straightforward: “If you’re setting off rockets, make sure to use a stable bucket filled with soil as your launch pad. This handy trick will save your grass from scorch marks and damage. For a vintage twist, opt for the classic wall or fence-mounted Catherine Wheel, your lawn will thank you for it.”
After bonfire night, it’s wise to be vigilant for any rockets that might have fallen into your garden, even if you didn’t set off any yourself. Leftover fireworks could contain chemicals that pose a risk to your lawn if they’re not promptly removed.