As March arrives, homeowners across the UK are turning their attention to lawns that have often become overgrown and moss-infested during the winter months. Celebrated gardening expert Monty Don, renowned for hosting BBC's Gardeners' World, offers a straightforward solution to this common problem, emphasising that nurturing grass vitality is more effective than merely trying to eradicate moss.
Why Moss Thrives on Lawns
Moss is a frequent sight on British lawns in spring, typically indicating underlying issues with soil drainage and compaction. Monty Don explains on his website that moss is always a symptom of poor drainage, which can be exacerbated by shady conditions. Compacted soil, caused by factors like matted roots, rainfall, and regular family use, prevents proper water flow and air circulation, leading to grass decay and increased disease risk.
The Simple Task: Lawn Aeration
Monty's key recommendation for March is aeration, a process that involves puncturing the ground with a garden fork. He advises sticking a fork into the soil and wiggling it about, repeating this every six inches across the lawn. This creates gaps in the compacted earth, allowing air and water to penetrate more effectively to the grass roots, which is essential for healthy growth.
Once aeration is complete, Monty suggests enhancing the lawn with a homemade mixture to boost nutrient levels. He recommends combining equal parts of sieved topsoil, sharp sand, and sieved leaf mould or compost. For those without these materials on hand, sharp or silver sand alone can suffice. Spread this mixture over the aerated area and brush it in with a stiff broom, filling the holes to improve drainage and feed the grass.
Additional Steps for Optimal Results
To further combat moss and promote a lush lawn, Monty advises using a wire rake to scratch the surface. This removes overwintering thatch and moss, allowing light and water to reach the soil and grass roots. The debris can be added to compost, followed by mowing the lawn. Although it may appear bare initially, the grass will regrow thicker and more vigorous within a week or so.
Applying this natural mulch not only feeds the soil but also helps suppress weeds and moss by strengthening the grass, enabling it to outcompete unwanted growth. By dedicating time to these tasks in March, homeowners can banish moss and encourage robust grass development, ensuring a thick, green lawn to enjoy throughout the spring season.
