Well it seems that winter is truely with us, and with night temperatures regularly falling below freezing recently, you’d be forgiven for forgeting all about your lawn! However even at this time of the year there are a few things to watch out for:
MOSS
We have found that due to a horrible wet August, a lot of our lawns are looking pretty mossy this year; unlike weeds, moss cannot be completely killed off as spores live on post treatment. Therefore even if we have done our best to rid our lawns of a moss infestation this autumn you may see it rearing its ugly head again. If this is the case we would recommend a moss control this winter to retard any growth now, making the spring task of getting your lawn back in shape much easier (and less costly!).
COMPACTION
Moss thrives on lawns which are suffering from compaction meaning that as a result of poor drainage, water sits on or near to the surface. By aerating you loosen the soil which allows the water to drain away with greater ease and permitting better oxygenation of the root zone.
We are spiking lawns that could benefit from some extra aeration this winter. If your lawn is very soggy after rain or you have worn areas due to use (paths to sheds, areas used frequently for garden games etc) then spiking could really make a difference in preparation for a lovely lawn next spring.
LEAF FALL
With the recent cold weather the trees are shedding their final leaves. Make sure you remove the leaves as soon as you can as they encourage worm activity on the surface, shut out the light and oxygen and will generally be deleterious to the health of your lawn. Be warned: piles of leaves left on lawn for any length of time will kill off the grass underneath!
MOWING
Oh yes, and don’t forget to get out there on a dry afternoon and give your lawn at least one haircut this month!
Posted by: rosa on: 18th December 2008 in the: Compaction and Aeration, Winter Lawn Care category
