The five simple steps you must take now for a perfect summer garden lawn
SPRING has definitely sprung with Easter here and the promise of some sun ahead.
And it’s the perfect time to tackle your all-important lawn.
If your grass is looking tired or overgrown and neglected, it’s vital to start getting it prepped for summer as soon as possible.
Dobbies’ plant buyer Nigel Lawton said: “Spring is the perfect time to take care of your lawn and prepare it for the warmer months ahead.”
Here are the expert’s top tips for a lush lawn.
GO HIGH AND DRY
IF you’ve not given your grass the first cut of the season yet, Nigel says it’s time to start tackling it.
But keen gardeners shouldn’t do too much, too quickly.
Hel says: “You want to make sure you keep the mower blades at their highest setting for the first mow to avoid cutting the grass too short.
“It’s also essential that you only mow when the lawn is dry to avoid damaging the grass or compacting the soil.”
If you are going to cut the grass, get it done now and take part in No Mow May, a national campaign to let your garden grow in May to encourage wildlife.
CUTTING EDGE
WHEN it comes to other lawncare jobs to get your grass looking its best this spring, there are some easy steps you can make. And one involves getting to grips with the edging.
Nigel said: “A neat, clean edge makes a world of difference. By using an edging iron or a sharp spade, you can add definition to your garden.
“It’s a simple task but one that will immediately enhance the overall appearance.”
As well as making the garden look nice, this step helps prevent grass from creeping into unwanted areas, reducing weeding needs dows the line.
RAKE ACTION
GETTING rid of the top, dead layer of grass – or thatch – can give your grass a whole new lease of life.
The expert says: “Scarifying removes the dead moss and thatch that can prevent your lawn from thriving. It might look a bit bare afterwards, but don’t worry – the grass will bounce back.
“After scarifying, you’ll also want to aerate your lawn. Use a garden fork to poke holes in the ground, allowing for better drainage and root growth.”
On new lawns, wait at least a year before scarifying, otherwise you can damage the turf. After spring, the next chance to do the job is autumn time.
SOW YOUR OWN
IT’S not just about taking care of the grass you have already – getting some fresh greenery in there helps.
Nigel says it’s time to get planting too.
He explains: “Sowing grass seed is an important step to ensure you have a full and healthy lawn come summer. Simply rake the soil, scatter the seed, and lightly rake again to settle it into place. Be sure to water the area well and protect it with fleece or fine mesh to keep birds at bay.”
Choosing the right seeds is important. For a hard-wearing lawn, use a blend of perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, red fescues and browntop.
GROW HOW
DOBBIES Garden Centres are hosting a free Grow How event in stores across Scotland in May, in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK to mark Dementia Action Week.
The chain is highlighting the benefits of garden living for brain health and raising vital funds through the workshop.
Dobbies’ Green Team will give a demonstration around lawn care, taking customers back to the basics and illustrating the importance of maintenance for a healthy lawn.
The team will also share information on Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Think Brain Health campaign, which aims to educate people about the steps they can take to look after their brains and help reduce the risk of dementia.
Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “As well as getting the chance to learn how to make the most of their gardens this spring, people can find out how to show their brains some love and help reduce their risk of dementia.
“Research shows that nearly half of all dementia cases could be prevented by addressing risk factors we can influence. But despite this, only a third of people in the UK realise it is possible to reduce their risk.”
The Grow How event, Love Your Lawn, will take place in every store on May 3 and 7 at 10.30am and 3.30pm, giving customers of all ages and gardening abilities the chance to learn something new or finesse their gardening skills.
To book visit dobbies.comevents
TURF AT THE TOP
Once you have prepped the lawn and sown the seeds, it’s essential you give your lawn some nutrients to ensure it stays lush and healthy.
Nigel said: “A good spring lawn feed, rich in nitrogen, will help your grass grow thick and green. I always recommend using a slow-release fertiliser that provides nutrients over time, so you don’t have to reapply as often.
“This gives your lawn a steady supply of food and helps it stay healthy throughout the growing season.”
Spring sown grass should be cut every week or so, as required, progressively lowering the height of the blades.