Achieving a green lawn after winter requires care and attention, especially since winter can cause stress to grass. Here are some practical gardening tips to revive your lawn and help it turn lush and green:
1. Rake and Clear Debris
- Why: Winter often leaves behind dead leaves, branches, and other debris that can smother grass and block sunlight.
- How: Use a leaf rake to clear the surface of your lawn. This allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the soil.
2. Aerate the Lawn
- Why: Winter compacts the soil, reducing airflow and making it harder for water and nutrients to penetrate. Aerating helps break up the compacted soil.
- How: Use a garden fork or a mechanical aerator to punch holes in the soil, allowing better water drainage and nutrient absorption.
3. Apply Grass Seed
- Why: After winter, some patches of the lawn may be thin or bare. Over-seeding helps thicken the lawn and fill in those areas.
- How: Choose a grass seed blend that’s suitable for your climate. Spread the seed evenly over your lawn, focusing on bare patches.
4. Use Fertiliser
- Why: Grass needs nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to recover and grow lush.
- How: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give your lawn a boost. Avoid over-fertilising as it can lead to excessive growth and increase vulnerability to pests.
5. Water Deeply and Consistently
- Why: Consistent watering helps the grass recover from winter stress and promotes deep root growth.
- How: Water the lawn deeply once or twice a week rather than frequent shallow watering. This encourages the roots to grow deeper and strengthens the grass.
6. Mow Regularly (But Not Too Short)
- Why: Mowing encourages grass to grow thicker, but cutting it too short can stress it and lead to scalping.
- How: Keep the grass height at about 2.5–3 inches. Sharpen mower blades regularly to avoid tearing the grass.
7. Control Weeds
- Why: Weeds can take over a weakened lawn. Early spring is the best time to control them before they become a bigger issue.
- How: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating. You can also manually remove visible weeds.
8. Top Dress with Compost
- Why: Adding a thin layer of compost improves soil structure, provides nutrients, and helps the lawn grow stronger.
- How: Spread a ¼-inch layer of compost over the lawn and rake it in gently. It will break down and improve the soil over time.
9. Consider Lawn Care Services
- Why: If your lawn has major issues like soil compaction, pests, or diseases, professional lawn care can provide tailored solutions.
- How: Look for local lawn care services that specialise in aeration, seeding, fertilising, or pest control.
10. Be Patient
- Why: Recovery takes time, and pushing the lawn too hard can cause more damage.
- How: Stick to a regular maintenance routine and allow time for the grass to naturally regrow and strengthen.
Following these steps should help restore your lawn to a healthy, green condition after winter.
