Expert shares how to cut grass to protect it for winter

Virgin Radio

21 Sep 2023, 16:11

The heatwave is well and truly over, and with autumn and winter on the horizon your thoughts might turn to the garden.

It is the autumn equinox this weekend, and the garden could be crying out for some attention.

Forecasters are predicting mild, damp conditions over the next few weeks, making it the ideal time to get the lawn in top shape.

Fabulous spoke to Fantastic Gardeners' landscaper and lawn care expert, Ionel Giuran, who says: “Autumn is a crucial time for lawn care which is the time when the transition from summer to winter requires specific attention to make sure your lawn stays healthy and beautiful. 

“However, keep in mind also that every lawn is unique, and your local climate and grass types can influence the timing and specifics of these tasks. That’s why it’s recommended to tailor your approach.

“Generally, by including the following lawn care tips in your checklist, you'll be able to set yours up for a successful autumn and a strong start to the next growing season.” 

He has the top tips for what length to cut your grass to: “As autumn sets in, gradually lower your mowing height, but never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing session. 

“Shorter grass will help prevent disease and allow more sunlight to reach the soil surface.” 

It's worth aerating the soil too, the expert says: “As summer comes to an end, your lawn might have compacted soil because of heavy foot traffic and the use of lawn equipment. That’s why it’s highly recommended to aerate the soil using a core aerator to improve water, air, and nutrient penetration to the grassroots.” 

He continued: “Early autumn is the ideal time for overseeding your lawn. 

“When doing that, choose a high-quality grass seed blend that suits your region and existing grass type. This will specifically help with filling in thin or bare spots and promote a denser, healthier lawn.

“It’s recommended to do that 45 days before the time that the first frost is expected.” 

Have you given any of these a go?