Britons are being advised to steer clear of a certain activity in January that could harm their lawn. Experts suggest that this issue could take a few weeks to rectify.
While January may not be the most appealing time to engage in garden activities, dedicated gardeners may still want to stay on top of specific tasks. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has shared its recommendations for lawn care in January on its website.
One key advice is to avoid walking on a frost-covered lawn whenever possible. This can cause damage to the grass blades, which become brittle in the cold. Such damage may result in brown footprints that could take several weeks to disappear. It is also suggested to patch up any bare spots, especially along the lawn edges, using turf from other garden areas if accessible.
To even out hollows and bumps, the RHS recommends cutting an H-shape into the turf, lifting the grass, and filling the depression with soil or removing excess soil from a bump. Subsequently, reposition the turf by aligning the cut edges and firmly securing it in place. Additionally, maintaining well-defined lawn edges with a half-moon edging iron or flat-bladed spade is advised to achieve a neat finish. Creating a 7.5cm (three-inch) “gutter” around the lawn edges can help prevent grass encroachment into borders.
Although lawn mowing is not specifically mentioned, the RHS suggests that it can be done in February as temperatures rise. It is recommended to mow the grass when the weather is warm, as grass growth typically initiates at temperatures above 7°C. However, ensure the cutting height is set to its maximum and only mow when the grass is dry.
For individuals looking to establish a new lawn, laying turf is a viable option according to the RHS. However, sowing lawn seed is not ideal in the current weather conditions.
The RHS advises, “Lay turf to establish a new lawn or repair damaged areas during mild weather. It is not advisable to sow lawn seed in cold conditions; it’s best to wait until spring.”
For further details, you can visit the RHS website by clicking here.