Lawn in Winter

In winter, keep clearing away any fallen leaves from the lawn by brushing or raking them up and removing them because a layer of leaves left on the lawn reduces evaporation and the resulting humidity can encourage turf diseases.

If there is new growth, set the mower to winter cut height, and lightly mow the lawn. Delay mowing during very wet or frosty weather: wet grass can clog the mower or the mower may slip, and mowing in frost damage the grass. Avoid walking on frosted or waterlogged lawns.

In late winter rake lawns to remove moss and thatch and to scatter worm casts that may have accumulated.

Remember to keep your tools clean and service. Winter, when the lawn is no longer in need of quite such regular attention, is the most convenient time to check all equipment carefully. Sharpen all cutting edges, oil tools where necessary and send the mower for servicing, so that it will be in peak condition for the first cut of the new season.