As the first warm rays of spring sunshine beckon us into our gardens, a leading horticulture expert has issued a crucial warning to green-fingered Brits. The common mistake? Reaching for the lawnmower at precisely the wrong time.
Many homeowners, eager to tidy up their winter-weary lawns, are committing what this pro labels a 'cardinal sin' of gardening. The result can be a patchy, yellowed, and struggling lawn instead of the lush green carpet they desire.
The Golden Rule: Resist the Urge
The advice is simple yet often ignored: never mow your lawn when it's wet. This is particularly tempting after an April shower or in the damp morning dew, but the consequences can be severe for your grass's health.
Cutting wet grass leads to a ragged, torn finish rather than a clean cut. This leaves the blades vulnerable to disease and fungal infections, which can quickly take hold and spread. Furthermore, wet clippings clump together, smothering the healthy grass beneath and blocking essential sunlight and air.
Your Action Plan for a Perfect Lawn
For a truly healthy lawn, follow this expert guidance:
- Check the forecast: Plan your mowing for a dry day, ideally when no rain is expected for at least 24 hours.
- Time it right: Avoid early mornings when dew is still present. Late morning or afternoon is often best.
- Raise the blades: For your first cut of the season, set your mower to a higher setting to avoid stressing the grass.
- Sharpen up: Ensure your mower blades are sharp. Dull blades tear the grass, increasing the risk of disease.
By adhering to these simple steps, you'll give your lawn the best possible start to the growing season, ensuring a robust and vibrant garden that's the envy of the street.
