Lawn Care Guide for Winter in Australia
As the temperature drops across Australia, your lawn’s growth slows down, and it's 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 thoughout the cold season and into spring.
Follow these five essential tips to keep your lawn in peak condition this winter.
1. Fertilise for Strength, Not Growth
Before the cold sets in, you need to fertilise your lawn. Autumn and Winter feeding is all about root strength, disease resistance and building resilience.
- What to use: All Seasons Fertiliser or Nitro Green Iron Boost Fertiliser
2. Aerate Your Lawn
Soil compaction stops your lawn getting what it needs, water, oxygen and nutrients.
- Use a garden fork or a specialised aerator (available to hire) to spike the lawn. This allows free movement through the soil. Improved drainage also 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.
- Since there is less sunlight in winter, more leaf surface area allows the grass to capture what little light is available more effectively. Taller grass blades provide better insulation for the soil and the delicate root system against frost.
- 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 slower in growth or in a dormant phase, weeds find it easier to steal nutrients and space.
- Pro-Tip: For a professional-grade solution that feeds your lawn while blocking weed seeds from germinating, check out 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 damage the plant, leading to brown patches that won't recover until the weather warms up.