According to garden boss Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, a little extra care before winter can make a big difference when spring arrives. Winter can be tough on lawns – frost, heavy rain, and compacted soil can all take their toll.
However, with a few simple steps, you can protect your lawn through the colder months and give it the best chance to bounce back lush and green next year. Even when the visible grass blades above ground are dormant, the roots are still active, so keeping them healthy now means your grass will be stronger and more resilient against winter weather conditions. First thing to do is clear your lawn of any debris such as fallen leaves and twigs, and also put away any toys or summer garden furniture, as all of these can smother the grass and block sunlight.
Aerating the soil is another essential step, as it allows water and nutrients to reach the roots, helping to prevent waterlogging and soil compaction.
Also, applying a winter-specific fertiliser can give your lawn a much-needed boost, and if you have bare or thin patches, now is the perfect time to overseed.
Once the first frosts arrive, make sure to avoid walking on the lawn, as frozen grass blades are brittle and can easily snap, and the soil can become compacted.
Here are Chris Bonnett’s top tips for getting the lawn ready for winter:
Clear debris
Remove fallen leaves, twigs, garden waste, and even toys or summer furniture. These can smother grass, block sunlight, and trap moisture, which encourages moss and fungal growth.
Aerate the soil
Use a garden fork or lawn aerator to gently spike the ground. This improves drainage and allows water and nutrients to reach the roots, which strengthens the grass from below and helps it withstand frost and heavy rainfall through the winter months.
Apply a winter fertiliser
Switch to a fertiliser designed for autumn or winter. They’re high in potassium, which strengthens roots and boosts disease resistance. Summer fertiliser isn’t suitable because it encourages rapid, leafy growth that the grass can’t support in cold weather.
Overseed thin or bare patches
Autumn is the perfect time to fill in patchy areas. Cooler, damp conditions help new seeds establish strong roots, creating a thicker, healthier lawn and reducing room for moss and weeds. The weather is still just warm enough for new seeds to take root, but don’t leave it too late or you’ll have to wait until spring. Be sure to check your local forecast before getting started.
Adjust mowing habits
Avoid cutting the grass too short. Raise your mower’s cutting height and mow less frequently to protect the roots and prevent frost damage.
Avoid walking on frosty or waterlogged grass
Walking on a frosty or waterlogged lawn can snap grass blades and compact the soil, and this can lead to long-term damage and patchy growth.
