Lawn Care Guide for Winter in Australia
Sun and Shade Blend, Joel, Claufield Victoria
As the temperature drops across Australia, your lawn’s growth slows down, and its needs shift. Whether you’re dealing with frost in Canberra or a mild winter in Brisbane, giving your grass some extra TLC now ensures it stays healthy and bounces back vibrant and green in spring.
Follow these five essential tips to keep your lawn in peak condition this winter.
1. Fertilise for Strength, Not Growth
Before the heavy frost sets in, you need to "winterise" your grass. Unlike spring fertilisers that focus on leaf growth, winter feeding is all about root strength and disease resistance.
- What to use: Look for a slow-release fertiliser with higher potassium levels. This acts like a "vitamin boost" for the grass cells, helping them withstand the cold.
- Warm Climates: If you are in a tropical or sub-tropical region, continue to fertilise lightly as needed, as your grass may not go fully dormant.
2. Aerate to Let Your Lawn Breathe
Cold winter rain can lead to soil compaction and waterlogging, which literally suffocates your grass roots.
- Use a garden fork or a specialized aerator to spike the lawn. This opens up channels for oxygen, water, and nutrients to reach the root zone. Improved drainage prevents "wet feet," which often leads to fungal issues during the wetter months.
3. Raise Your Mowing Height
It’s time to move those mower blades up a notch or two.
- Taller grass blades provide better insulation for the soil and the delicate root system against frost. Since there is less sunlight in winter, more leaf surface area allows the grass to capture what little light is available more effectively.
- Rule of Thumb: Never remove more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time.
4. Stay Ahead of Winter Weeds
Winter is prime time for "Wintergrass" (Poa annua) and Broadleaf weeds to invade. Because your grass is dormant, weeds find it easier to steal nutrients and space.
- Pro-Tip: Prevention is better than a cure. For a professional-grade solution that feeds your lawn while blocking weed seeds from germinating, check out our Echelon Duo Herbicide and Fertiliser or Poachek Herbicide
5. Watch Your Step: Minimise Foot Traffic
When grass is frosty or waterlogged, it becomes brittle. Walking on a frozen lawn can actually break the leaf blades and damage the crown of the plant, leading to brown patches that won't recover until the weather warms up.