“Cold weather conditions and minimal daylight during winter can really affect your lawn, but there are plenty of ways to make the most of the winter months and get your lawn prepped and ready for spring,” according to John Keleher, award winning turf grower and president of Turf Australia.
Warm season grasses such as soft leafed Buffalos, Kikuyu and Couches are used in many temperate and subtropical regions within Australia. Similarly to cool season grasses (Fescue and Rye types) these grasses require a few basic maintenance rules to be followed during winter, particularly if they are being grown in the southern parts of Australia.
These tips include:
1. Fertilising your lawn in autumn is great preparation for the winter months. If you missed this timing, a light fertilizing in early winter containing a balanced nutrient mix is still recommended.
2. Raise your cutting height slightly. Longer leaf blades catch more light, and will also protect the roots from frost damage and foot traffic. Try to limit traffic in shaded areas as lawns don't recover as quickly in winter.
3. It’s normal for lawn growth to slow during winter, sometimes making it easier for winter weeds to take over. There are many selective weed control options that won’t harm your lawn but will help keep it clean of the weeds. Always remember to treat them small and get them all, and of course follow the manufacturer’s label when applying.
4. Use a spray-on frost protection in very cold areas to help increase the lawn’s season.
5. Many of us overlook the need for watering our lawns when the hot weather passes, though it still requires watering in winter. Cutting your summer watering down by half in winter is a reasonable guide.
6. Keep an eye on the colour of your lawn. Although discolouration is normal, white grass can mean it’s lacking moisture and/or nutrients. If you are unsure, seek advice from your local turf producer.
7. Winter can also be a good time to consider a complete lawn replacement and can see it established and thriving by Spring. If you are considering a lawn makeover, make sure you get a professional consultation to consider factors such as climate, usage and budget.
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