As summer fades and the cooler, wetter months roll in, your lawn begins to face a new set of challenges. Shorter days, falling leaves, and damp conditions can take their toll, leaving grass looking tired and patchy. However, with the right care in autumn, you can prepare your lawn to withstand the winter and bounce back strong in spring. At Thomas Charles Landscapes, we help homeowners across Hertfordshire keep their lawns in top condition. Here are our expert autumn lawn care tips to keep your grass healthy through winter.
1. Clear Leaves and Debris Regularly
Fallen leaves may look seasonal and picturesque, but if left on your lawn they block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to yellowing patches and encouraging moss. Rake or use a leaf blower weekly to keep your lawn clear. Not only will this improve the appearance of your garden, but it will also ensure your grass continues to receive light and air.
2. Scarify to Remove Thatch and Moss
Autumn is the perfect time to scarify your lawn. This process removes the layer of thatch – a build-up of dead grass and organic matter – as well as moss that can smother growth. By scarifying in autumn, you create space for your grass to breathe, improve drainage, and prepare it for strong root development before winter sets in.
3. Aerate for Better Drainage
Heavy rainfall in autumn can lead to waterlogged soil, especially in compacted lawns. Aerating your lawn – by spiking it with a garden fork or using a professional aeration machine – improves drainage and allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil. This encourages stronger, healthier root systems that will help your grass survive the colder months.
4. Overseed Bare Patches
If your lawn has thinned out over summer, autumn is the ideal time to overseed. The soil is still warm, and rainfall helps new seeds to establish quickly. Overseeding fills in bare patches, thickens the grass, and reduces the chances of moss and weeds taking hold. For the best results, choose a seed mix that suits your garden’s conditions – whether it’s shaded, sunny, or heavily used.
5. Apply an Autumn Lawn Feed
Fertilising in autumn is essential for long-term lawn health. However, it’s important to use the right product. Unlike spring and summer feeds that are high in nitrogen for top growth, autumn lawn fertilisers are rich in potassium and phosphorus. These nutrients strengthen the roots and improve disease resistance, giving your lawn the resilience it needs to get through winter.
6. Adjust Your Mowing Routine
As temperatures drop, grass growth slows down, but it doesn’t stop completely. Continue mowing in autumn, but reduce the frequency and raise the cutting height. Keeping your grass slightly longer – around 4–5 cm – helps protect it from frost and reduces stress on the roots. Always make sure your mower blades are sharp to avoid damaging the grass.
7. Control Weeds and Moss
Weeds and moss are more likely to thrive in damp autumn conditions. Address them early by applying a suitable moss killer or weed treatment. Combining this with scarification and overseeding will leave you with a healthier, thicker lawn that’s naturally more resistant to invasive growth.
8. Prepare for Winter Wear and Tear
Autumn is also the time to think about how you’ll use your garden in winter. Try to avoid walking on frosty or waterlogged grass, as this can damage the blades and leave unsightly marks. If certain areas of your garden see heavy foot traffic, consider laying stepping stones or installing a path to protect the lawn.
Caring for your lawn in autumn is one of the most effective ways to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant through winter. By scarifying, aerating, overseeding, and applying the right feed, you give your grass the best chance to survive the colder months and flourish again in spring.
At Thomas Charles Landscapes, we provide professional lawn care services including autumn treatments, overseeding, and new turf installation. If your lawn needs a seasonal boost, get in touch with our team for expert advice and a free quotation.