GardenAdvice.co.uk Gardening calendar 4th week February 2025 ( Audio Available )
Micro clover in a lawn
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As we approach the end of winter, it’s time to start thinking about lawn maintenance. Traditionally, lawns were left uncut from autumn until late March, but with the changing climate, it’s beneficial to take advantage of dry weather for a quick trim in late winter to help to control fungal disease by keeping the lawn plants drier
Lawn Mowing in Late Winter
• If the weather is dry, give your lawn a light cut to keep it under control so it does not become to long in the spring this helps control moisture in the lawn to control fungal diseases.
• Follow the one-third rule: never remove more than a third of the total grass blade length to avoid weakening the grass.
• Mowing now helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases like fusarium and dollar spot.
Testing and Adjusting Soil pH
• Moss buildup is often due to a low soil pH (acidic soil) rather than poor drainage.
• Grass grows best at a pH of 5.75–6.0; below this, moss starts to thrive.
• Test your lawn’s pH and, if needed, apply bio-lime to raise it.
• Correct soil pH brings two key benefits:
• Less thatch (dead grass buildup), as soil bacteria and organisms can break down organic matter effectively.
• Improved drainage due to increased worm activity, which naturally aerates the soil.
Light Raking & Early Lawn Maintenance
• Use a springbok rake or light scarifier to remove dead leaves and debris.
• This prevents disease and allows light and air to reach the soil.
Fertilizing in Early Spring
• Apply the first lawn feed in March, ideally an organic slow-release fertilizer.
• Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which create excessive soft growth, leading to potential problems later.
Overseeding with Grass and Micro Clover
• As temperatures rise in March, overseed your lawn to fill bare patches and improve density.
• Many GardenAdvice.co.uk clients now overseed with micro clover for several benefits:
• Durability: Creates a soft, resilient surface for children to play on.
• Year-Round Colour: Holds its green colour through winter and summer.
• Reduced Mowing: Requires less frequent cutting compared to standard grass.
• Pet-Friendly: Micro clover withstands dog urine better than regular grass.
• Overseed by sprinkling seed over the existing lawn, ensuring it stays damp for 21 days to promote germination.
Dealing with Bare Patches
• If your lawn has thin or bare areas, overseed these sections as the weather warms.
• Keep the area moist for 21 days to encourage growth.
Exclusive Offer for My Garden Team Members
• If you’re a GardenAdvice.co.uk My Garden Team member, you’re entitled to 75 square meters of free lawn care as part of your service.
• Contact your expert gardener or email GardenAdvice.co.uk to schedule a lawn treatment.
Stay ahead of the growing season and start preparing your lawn now for a healthy, green spring!
