Alan Titchmarsh, the esteemed former presenter of Gardeners' World, has shared essential advice for British gardeners ahead of the spring mowing season. He recommends completing a crucial task before reaching for the lawnmower: scarifying the lawn.
What is Scarifying?
Scarifying is a deep-cleaning technique that removes moss and dead grass from the lawn. This process improves the flow of water, air, and nutrients to the soil, promoting healthier grass growth. It is best carried out in spring, from late March to early May, or during autumn when the grass is still actively growing.
How to Scarify
Alan suggests using a wire-tooth rake for smaller lawns, which can be physically demanding but effective. For larger gardens, a powered scarifier can make the job easier. On his Gardening with Alan Titchmarsh YouTube channel, he explained: "After winter, one thing that is growing faster than the grass is the moss among it. To allow the grass room to spread sideways, we need to get rid of that moss. The simplest way is to use a wire-tooth rake. Better still, if you've got a garden of any size, use a powered scarifier."
Mowing Advice
Alan also offered tips on proper mowing techniques. He advises not to cut the grass too short: in summer, maintain a height of one inch, and in very hot weather, raise it to one and a half inches. He recommends mowing at least once a fortnight. Regarding the No Mow May campaign, which encourages skipping mowing to support insects, Alan suggests a balanced approach: "Far better to mow constantly through the year but to leave longer areas that are un-mown."
Alan's Gardening Credentials
Alan Titchmarsh is one of Britain's most respected gardening experts. He presented Gardeners' World from 1996 to 2002 and currently fronts Love Your Garden and Love Your Weekend on ITV. He has also revealed his "most important gardening tool" and issued an urgent appeal for better lawn maintenance.
Alan concluded his video with rapid-fire recommendations, emphasizing that grass is a plant that needs care: "Don't mow too close. Cut your lawn at least once a fortnight. Show it that we care."
