LAWN CARE FOR THE WINTER SEASON
Ruth lists her top guide of do’s and don’ts
Tackling the lawn is one of those jobs that i have mixed feelings about. it’s a task that provides immense satisfaction when it’s all done and looking its best, but i often have to crank myself up to get started!
The key to keeping up with lawn care, is little and often. collect leaves as you go, instead of dealing with a thick layer when they’re all down. Benefits of keeping the lawn clear of fallen foliage are reduced diseases, moss and worm activity. leaves also weaken the grass and provides a haven for pests.
if you live in a mild region or your lawn isn’t waterlogged or frozen, it’s the last chance to aerate it with a garden fork to improve drainage. it is easier when the ground is damp.
grass continues to grow in temperatures above 5˚c/41˚F so it may be necessary to mow the lawn, raising the blade height to 2-3in (5-7.5cm).
it is late in the season to scarify (rake out dead ‘thatch’) or topdress the lawn, but be guided by the weather. Finally, tidy up the edges to finish the job and see your lawn tidily through winter.