Gardeners who complete two specific jobs in September can keep their lawns healthy throughout autumn and winter, according to Craig Wilson, co-founder and in-house gardening expert at Gardeners Dream.
Rake leaves regularly
Wilson advised that lawns need to breathe properly and take in enough water, oxygen and sunlight to remain healthy through the colder months. He said: "So, as soon as you start to notice leaves falling, make sure to rake them away regularly, as leaving them to build up will starve your lawn of all of the things it needs to survive."
He warned that thick layers of damp leaves create ideal breeding grounds for pests, which can spread diseases and leave brown patches of dead grass that gardeners would need to repair in spring.
Aerate to prevent waterlogging
Grass continues to grow well into autumn, and mowing should continue while gradually raising the cutting height as temperatures fall. Mowing should be avoided when the lawn is very wet or frosty.
Wilson noted that increased rainfall in autumn puts lawns in danger of waterlogging. He said: "So, this month is a good time for some precautionary measures. To avoid waterlogging or soil compaction, you will need to aerate your lawn by poking holes into it with a garden fork or a scarifier."
Start winter preparation
Wilson also suggested beginning winter preparation in September. He recommended setting up compost bins for garden waste such as leaves and other dead plant materials, noting these are great for making leaf mould.
