Simple winter maintenance protects the soil and grass plant so your lawn is ready to recover when active growth returns.
Make autumn preparations
Remove fallen leaves and debris, make the final cuts gradually and deal with drainage before prolonged wet weather.
- Never remove more than one-third of the leaf in one cut.
- Keep the lawn clear so wet leaves do not smother the grass.
- Aerate compacted established turf when soil conditions are suitable.
Mow only when conditions allow
Grass growth slows substantially in winter. Mow only when the lawn is actively growing and the surface is firm enough to avoid rutting.
- Use a higher cutting height than in summer.
- Avoid mowing frozen, frosty, waterlogged or snow-covered grass.
- Keep blades sharp to reduce tearing.
Use seasonal nutrition carefully
If feeding is required, choose a product formulated for autumn or winter and follow its application rate.
- Avoid high-nitrogen feeds that encourage soft growth.
- Do not apply granular products to saturated or frozen ground.
- Correct underlying soil problems rather than relying on fertiliser alone.
Limit traffic and compaction
Wet and frozen lawns are vulnerable to footprints, rutting and damaged grass crowns.
- Keep people, pets and equipment off saturated areas.
- Avoid repeatedly walking the same route across the lawn.
- Wait for frost to lift before using the surface.
Watch for drainage and disease
Inspect the lawn regularly so standing water, matted growth and discoloured patches are addressed early.
- Clear leaves to improve light and air movement.
- Investigate low areas or compaction where water persists.
- Seek specialist advice before applying disease treatment.
Prepare for spring recovery
As temperatures rise, clear remaining debris and assess thin, compacted or damaged areas before returning to intensive maintenance.
- Resume mowing gradually as active growth returns.
- Overseed and repair when soil temperature and moisture are suitable.
- Choose spring feed according to the lawn’s condition.
