Gardeners should use October to repair summer-damaged lawns and prepare grass for colder months. Mowing correctly, regular watering and repairing bare patches remain key tasks for outdoor spaces this month.
Two gardening experts shared advice with Express UK on essential steps to help lawns recover and thrive before winter.
Try the footprint test
Loren Taylor, owner of Outdoor Fountain Pros, said: “October is one of my favourite months in the garden because it feels like the garden is finally taking a breath. The worst of the summer heat is usually behind us; the soil is still warm, and plants can start putting their energy back into their roots.”
She recommended aerating hard, compacted ground to help water and air reach the roots again, and overseeding thin or bare patches while the soil is warm and the air is cooler.
Taylor suggested a simple check to assess lawn health: “One little trick I like is the footprint test. Walk across the lawn and look back. If your footprints stay visible, the grass may be too dry and need a deeper watering. I prefer deep watering less often instead of light watering every day.”
Clear leaves before final mow
Ashleigh Bradshaw, garden expert at Hayter, advised clearing leaves and debris before the final mow of the year. She said: “It’s not an exciting job, but your lawn must be clear before you complete your final mow of the year.”
Bradshaw noted that fallen branches, leaves, debris and bird feed can clutter lawns at this time of year. Leaves are usually the biggest mess-maker and can be disposed of in garden waste bins or used to create leaf mould.
“Leaf mulch made from freshly shredded leaves can be used to protect your lawn over winter, offering light frost protection and slowly enriching the soil. Leaf mould, once fully broken down, is ideal for improving soil structure in borders and beds,” she added.
