Autumn: the days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. The lawn, so carefully maintained during the summer, needs a final push before winter arrives. It's tempting to slacken off on gardening after the summer, but now is the time to pay attention to your lawn. A well-prepared lawn in autumn ensures you won't encounter any unpleasant surprises in the spring. What lawn maintenance tasks await you this autumn?
Why you shouldn't forget your lawn care in the fall
Although grass is naturally resistant to cold, minor neglect in the fall can lead to damage that only becomes apparent when the snow melts and spring returns. Think of bare patches, mold, or a completely weakened lawn. The goal of fall maintenance is to ensure your lawn is clean, healthy, and strong for the winter. A clean base and sufficient nutrients are essential.
Removing autumn leaves: let your lawn breathe
One of the first jobs in autumn is removing fallen leaves and branches from your lawn. A thick layer of leaves on your lawn can do more harm than good. Leaves left on the grass can block light and oxygen, which can suffocate the grass and promote the growth of mold and other diseases.
There are several ways to remove leaves. You can use a traditional rake, but if you're looking for a more efficient method, consider using your lawn mower with a grass catcher . Set the mower to its highest setting. This works especially well when the leaves are dry and the layer isn't too thick yet. Another option is using a leaf blower or leaf vacuum . Don't forget that leaves can also be useful; for example, leave them in flowerbeds or around shrubs, where they serve as natural frost protection and provide shelter for small animals.
The last mowing: short and powerful
After clearing away the leaves, it's time for the final mowing of the season. This is an important step to ensure your lawn is well-prepared for winter. Short-mown grass is less susceptible to mold and isn't as easily flattened by snow.
When should you mow your lawn for the last time? It's important to mow the lawn before the first frost, but not too early, so the grass has enough time to grow. A dry day between late October and mid-November is ideal. Make sure the grass is dry and the weather is overcast, so the grass doesn't dry directly in the bright sun.
Aim for a grass length of about 5 cm. This is short enough to protect the grass from being crushed by snow, but long enough to prevent damage. For shady lawns, a length of about 9 cm is better, as this type of grass is more sensitive to cold.
Fertilizing in the fall: give your lawn the right nutrition
The last mowing is also the time to fertilize your lawn one last time. Unlike spring, where nitrogen-rich fertilizers stimulate growth, your lawn now needs an autumn fertilizer with a high potassium content. Potassium strengthens the grass's cell structure and makes it more resistant to cold and frost.
The best time to fertilize is after the last mowing, but before the first frost. This usually falls between mid-October and early November. Use a spreader to distribute the fertilizer evenly over the lawn, ensuring the fertilizer has time to penetrate the soil before the first frost.
Repairing damage: sowing in autumn
Early autumn is also an excellent time to address bare or damaged patches in your lawn. The still-warm soil and regular rainfall create ideal conditions for new grass seed to germinate.
How do you fix bald spots?
- Prepare the soil: loosen the soil and remove any weeds.
- Spread new grass seed: Cover the bare spots with a thin layer of seed and press it down lightly.
- Cover with potting soil: this helps the seeds to germinate better and protects them from birds.
- Watering: Make sure the new seeds get enough moisture to germinate.
September is the ideal month for sowing. The soil is still warm from summer, and there's often plenty of rain. This gives the seed the best chance to germinate quickly and develop a strong root system before winter sets in. Sowing after October can be risky, as the young grass blades may not be strong enough to survive the frost.
Preparing machines for winter
After the last mowing, it's time to winterize your lawn mower. A well-maintained machine will perform better in the spring.
Steps for winter maintenance of the lawn mower:
- Empty the fuel tank: Fuel residue can thicken over the winter and clog the carburetor.
- Check the oil level: Change the oil if necessary to ensure the mower starts smoothly in the spring.
- Clean the mower thoroughly: Remove grass clippings and dirt from the blades and the underside of the mower.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharp blades ensure a clean cut and less stress on the grass.
- Storage: Store the mower in a dry, frost-free place.
Is your lawn ready for the cold, wet months?
Lawn maintenance in the fall is especially important for a healthy and strong lawn in the spring. By removing leaves, mowing the grass short, winterizing your lawn mower, fertilizing your lawn correctly, and addressing bare patches, you give your lawn the best chance of surviving the winter unscathed.
