As we move into the cooler months of the year, it’s time to get up to date on your winter lawn care. Did you know winter can be one of the harshest seasons for your lawn? Most lawns in Queensland are warm season grasses that thrive in warmer weather as there is more sun throughout the day. Meaning with the cooler months, the grass grows slower and struggles.
Here is what you need to know about winter lawn care.
Weed before winter
One of the most important actions for winter lawn care is weeding before it gets too cold. Most weeds are self seeding, meaning they drop their seeds throughout your lawn and lay dormant until the cooler months arrive. In winter, the grass grows slower and can leave gaps if mown too short, this is when weeds start to spread.
Weeding in the cooler months before winter begins, can drastically slow the spread of weeds such as bindis, dandelions, clover, cape-weed and thistles, all of which are commonly found in Queenslanders lawns.
Mow at a higher height
Mowing your grass at a higher level and less frequently during winter is a great way to care for your lawn throughout this season. As grass growth stalls during winter, the tips of your grass need to absorb a larger amount of UV rays so it can stay lush and healthy. Therefore, raising your mower blades and reducing the number of times you mow gives the grass more time and more room to grow.
Reduce watering
Although, winter in Queensland is usually dry weather, over watering your lawn to make up for the lack of rain can actually damage its health. Reducing the number of times you water your lawn throughout winter can improve your lawn’s health by minimising thatch layer rotting. For the best winter lawn care, use water efficient sprinklers that are activated by a timer. This makes the process easier, and doesn’t take up your time.
Fertilise
There are some brilliant lawn fertilisers available for all your winter lawn care needs. Based on the type of lawn and it’s location, fertilisers can keep your lawn looking healthy, with all the nutrients and vitamins it needs to grow throughout the winter months. By taking the time to identify areas of your lawn that struggle during winter, you can find a fertiliser best suited for your grass.
Clear leaves and debris
During autumn trees begin to shed their leaves, leaving leaf litter and debris across your lawn. Debris can prevent your grass from getting the sunlight it needs, leaving your lawn at risk of disease that can be damaging to its health. Dispose of leaf litter by adding it to your compost or use it as mulch in your veggie garden.
As we enter the cold months of the year, we suggest getting outside and giving your lawn a little TLC by following these winter lawn care tips to keep it looking lush and healthy over the winter months! If you think your lawn, needs more than a little TLC, head to our website and check out our turf range.