With frost and wet weather to contend with, keeping your lawn healthy through the colder months can be a challenge – and it seems one common gardening job is a big no-no
Gardeners might want to hold off firing up the lawnmowers this February, even if their grass looks a bit overgrown.
Chris Ware, a local gardening expert from Climbing Wild Gardeners, has issued an advisory against cutting the lawn too soon, highlighting the risk of ‘long-term damage’. “Mowing your lawn when the grass is damp or wet can cause long-term damage to both your lawn and your equipment,” he pointed out.
“Wet grass doesn’t cut cleanly; it tears, leaving the edges jagged. This makes the lawn more susceptible to diseases and pests.” Not only does the turf take a hit, but clumped wet clippings can suffocate the healthy grass beneath.
Chris explained: “What you’re left with is a patchy, uneven finish that can take months to recover,” It’s not just the greenery that faces jeopardy – so does your toolkit.
“Cutting wet grass puts unnecessary strain on your lawnmower, dulling the blades faster and overworking the motor. Waiting until the grass is dry helps maintain both the lawn’s health and your gardening equipment.”
While cutting the grass might be on pause, Chris offers alternative tips for tending to your garden during these colder spells, reports the Express. “Aerating your lawn is a simple yet effective way to keep it healthy,” he explained. “It improves drainage, reduces compaction, and ensures the grass gets the air it needs to recover and grow stronger come spring.”
As for your trusty lawnmower, getting it ready now can spell success for later. “Winter is the perfect time to check the blades and ensure everything is in working order,” Chris suggested. “A sharp blade will make clean cuts, helping the lawn heal faster and reducing the risk of diseases.”
Chris goes on to stress the importance of laying off the winter trim and concentrating instead on crucial upkeep, asserting that this approach gives your lawn the top odds for blossoming.
“Patience and a little preparation go a long way in ensuring a lush, green garden once the warmer weather returns,” he added.