Autumn Lawncare Guide
Autumn Lawncare Guide
September is often cited as the month to prepare your lawn for the coming winter but, with 2018's scorching hot summer showing no signs of abating you may wish to delay any autumn lawn preperation until some substantial rain has fallen to avoid over stressing your alreadty delicate grass.
A diligent regime of maintenance and preparation in the latter half of the year will pay dividends with a healthier lawn come the spring. The main tasks can be broken down as follows:
AeratingAerating (or spiking) a lawn improves the flow of air and water down into the all-important root zone. |
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ScarifyingWith the passage of time established lawns can build up levels of thatch (horizontal grass stems, moss and assorted debris) at soil level. This thatch stops nutrients and water reaching the grass roots, weakening the lawn and encouraging the growth of weeds and moss. |
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Top DressingTop dressing involves the application of loam, organic matter, and sand onto a lawn to improve the soil and to smooth out any uneven areas. Top dressing encourages rooting and helps to thicken the turf. An average top dressing mix is made up of three parts sandy loam, six parts sharp sand, and one part compost or leaf mould. Apply the top dressing at 4-6lbs per 10 sq. ft. and work will into the lawn with the back of a rake. |