Spring is the perfect time to give your lawn the care and attention it needs after the colder winter months.
The warmer days will encourage your turf to break free of its dormant state and some extra attention will be needed to prepare it for summer.
Here are some tips for homeowners mowing lawns during spring in Australia.
Clean up the lawn
Before mowing, make sure to clear the lawn of any debris, such as leaves, branches, and twigs. This will help prevent damage to your mower and keep your lawn looking clean and well-maintained.
Check the mower blades
Make sure to check the mower blades before mowing to ensure they are sharp and in good condition. Dull blades can cause damage to the grass, making it more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Adjust the mower blades
As the weather warms up in spring, you can adjust the mower blades to a lower setting. This will help to promote new growth and give your lawn a clean, uniform look.
Don’t cut the grass too short
While it may be tempting to cut the grass as short as possible, it’s important not to cut it too short in spring. Aim to leave the grass at least 5cm high to protect the roots and retain moisture. There’s a guide to the best lawn mowing heights for your grass type here.
Mow regularly
During spring, your lawn will be growing at a faster rate than it did in winter. It’s important to mow regularly to keep the grass at a consistent length and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Water deeply
Spring is a great time to start deep watering your lawn to encourage strong root growth. Irrigate deeply once a week, rather than giving it a shallow watering every day, to encourage deep roots that will help your lawn survive periods of heat and drought stress during summer. There’s more advice about watering your lawn here.
Fertilise
Spring is the perfect time to fertilise your lawn to encourage strong, healthy growth. Mow two or three times and then once the grass is actively growing, apply a slow-release fertiliser to provide your lawn with the nutrients it needs to thrive throughout the season. There’s a guide to preparing your lawn in spring here.
Aerate the lawn
Aerating your lawn in spring can help to improve soil drainage, allowing air, water and nutrients to reach the roots more easily. This can help to promote healthy growth and prevent the soil from becoming compacted.
Maintain your mower
Regular mower maintenance can help to ensure it runs smoothly throughout the mowing season. Make sure to change the oil and air filter, sharpen the blades, and check the spark plug regularly to keep your mower in top condition.
Spring is a crucial time for giving your lawn the care and attention it needs after the colder winter months.
By following these tips, you can keep your lawn looking healthy and well-maintained throughout the spring season.
Remember to clean up the lawn, check the mower blades, and adjust the mower blades to a lower setting. Don’t cut the grass too short, mow regularly and water deeply. Fertilise and aerate the lawn, and maintain your mower regularly.
Most of all, enjoy the opportunity to get outdoors in your garden again.