Looking after your lawn in winter

Winter is a fairly quiet time in the garden, however there are still a few things you can do to help keep your lawn in the best possible condition, as our guide to looking after your lawn in winter explains.

Rest the lawn

Try to rest the lawn as much as possible during winter. If practical keep off when wet or frosty, as the grass plants are not actively growing and will not repair themselves if damaged until the spring.

Mowing

Only mow the lawn if necessary; this will depend upon weather conditions and temperatures at the time. Do not mow if heavy frosts are expected or if the ground is very wet.

Info Centre - Turf in winter

Clear leaves and debris

Use a light rake or brush to keep the lawn free of leaves and debris. Specialist leaf sweepers and lawn vacuums are available for hire from local garden centres or DIY stores for larger lawns; although in winter it is better to keep off with heavier machines.

Aeration

Aerate consolidated areas of the lawn with a fork or with a spiking machine. These are available for hire from local garden centres or DIY stores for larger lawns. This will relieve compaction, improve drainage and allow more air into the root system leading to a healthier lawn.

Dealing with worms

Remember worms improve the nutrient content of a soil and are beneficial to the soil structure. Worm casts are best left to dry and then swept away with a stiff brush.

Service mower

Service or replace your mower if necessary ready for the next growing season. As always make sure that the blades are in good condition and are sharp.

Sign up for lawn tips

Click here to sign up to receive our regular lawn care tips and promotional offers by email, to help you get the best from your lawn.

Further information on lawn aftercare procedures and pests and diseases can be found in our Information Centre. You may also like our spring lawn care video and seasonal lawn care guide.