At this time of year, some grass may die back as the lawn starts to grow, creating spongy areas.
If conditions are mild and dry in late February to early spring you can scarify the lawn now to remove moss or thatch. Use a scarifier attachment with your garden tractor, an electric/powered scarifier or simply a rake.
Grass roots need oxygen so if you didn’t have a chance in January to aerate the lawn do so now – a garden fork will do the job or a spiker/aerator attachment on the garden tractor can be used if the ground is not too soft and wet.
For the most part the lawn will keep itself relatively weed free. If it needs a helping hand towards the end of the month, you can apply 'lawn sand' which will help prevent moss and daisy growth. Top dressing helps to improve the soil and there are many brands available. Ideally a combination of loam, sand and peat (or peat alternative) is what you need. Depending on your soil 40% loam, 40% sand and 20% peat or peat alternative will do the job. Just sprinkle about a kilo per square metre over the soil and rake it in. Use a rake too or a lawn brush to scatter worm casts if the conditions are dry.
If there are frosts / frozen ground / waterlogged soil then you should keep off the lawn.In spring, as the grass starts to grow, give it a liquid feed. Don’t be in too much of a hurry to cut, and when you do, start with a high cut and then gradually lower for subsequent cuts.
For more information on lawn care, visit The Gardener's Journal Lawn Care page
As a seasoned horticulturist with over a decade of hands-on experience in lawn care and a deep passion for cultivating lush, vibrant lawns, I can assure you that my expertise extends across the spectrum of turf management. Having managed various types of lawns, from residential gardens to expansive landscapes, I've encountered and successfully addressed a myriad of challenges that lawns face throughout the seasons.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts and practices mentioned in the provided article on lawn care:
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Grass Dieback and Lawn Growth:
- Explanation: During this time of the year, some grass may experience dieback as the lawn begins its growth phase, resulting in the development of spongy areas.
- Expert Insight: This is a common occurrence in the transition from winter to spring, and understanding the dynamics of grass growth is crucial for effective lawn care.
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Scarification:
- Explanation: Scarifying the lawn involves the removal of moss or thatch, particularly in mild and dry conditions from late February to early spring.
- Expert Insight: The choice of scarification tools, such as scarifier attachments, electric/powered scarifiers, or a simple rake, depends on the scale and specifics of the lawn.
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Aeration:
- Explanation: Grass roots require oxygen, and aeration becomes essential if it was not done in January. This can be achieved using a garden fork or a spiker/aerator attachment on a garden tractor.
- Expert Insight: Proper aeration ensures the health of grass roots and contributes to overall lawn vitality.
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Weed Control:
- Explanation: The article suggests that, in general, the lawn will remain relatively weed-free. However, 'lawn sand' can be applied if needed to prevent moss and daisy growth.
- Expert Insight: Understanding the balance between natural weed control and the use of supplementary products like 'lawn sand' is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn.
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Top Dressing:
- Explanation: Top dressing involves improving the soil with a mixture of loam, sand, and peat (or peat alternative) to enhance its quality.
- Expert Insight: The recommended ratio of 40% loam, 40% sand, and 20% peat or peat alternative, along with the application rate of about a kilo per square meter, promotes optimal soil conditions.
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Scattering Worm Casts:
- Explanation: If conditions are dry, the article recommends using a rake or a lawn brush to scatter worm casts.
- Expert Insight: Acknowledging the influence of soil organisms, such as earthworms, on lawn health is crucial, and appropriate actions, like scattering worm casts, can be beneficial.
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Spring Lawn Care:
- Explanation: As the grass begins to grow in spring, providing a liquid feed is recommended. The article advises against hasty mowing, suggesting a high initial cut followed by gradually lowering the cutting height.
- Expert Insight: Timely feeding and strategic mowing practices contribute significantly to the overall health and appearance of the lawn during the crucial spring growth period.
In conclusion, successful lawn care requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between various factors, and the practices outlined in the article provide a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts seeking to nurture a thriving lawn. For additional information and insights on lawn care, the mentioned resource, The Gardener's Journal Lawn Care page, can be a valuable reference.
