Before you start planting this spring, the gardening guru says there are few jobs you need to do to get your lawn looking its best
Spring is just around the corner, and for those with a passion for gardening, it’s time to don your gloves and delve into the garden. March stands as the ideal month to give our lawns the attention they need to ensure they’re in their best condition come summer.
After months of enduring the typical wet and rainy British weather, many gardeners may discover their lawns have become magnets for moss. This common garden intruder, with its green or yellowish-green tufts that sometimes form thick mats, can leave lawns looking scruffy and poorly maintained.
To help us maintain pristine lawns, gardening expert Monty Don has offered a simple tip to prepare your lawn for the upcoming milder months.
While some might reach for chemical solutions to banish moss, which can damage soil and pose risks to the wildlife that inhabits our gardens, Monty Don suggests a more nature-friendly approach to keeping your grass moss-free – all you need is a garden fork.
Monty Don advises that the “answer” to overcoming moss involves aerating the soil at least once annually by inserting a fork into the ground, giving it a wiggle, and repeating this action every six inches or so, reports the Express.
After aerating with the fork, he recommends mixing equal parts of sieved topsoil, sharp sand, and leaf mould or compost, followed by giving the lawn a thorough “good scratch” with a rake.
Other methods to eliminate moss from your lawn include scarifying, which can also be effective. Scarifying is the process of removing thatch, moss, and debris from a lawn to improve aeration and promote healthier grass growth.
Described as a deep clean for your turf, scarifying involves raking or using a powered scarifier to eliminate moss, thatch, and dead grass. This clears out unwanted buildup, paving the way for stronger, healthier grass.
Experts at Joe’s Lawn Care recommend an unconventional method for tackling moss. They shared: “I know this sounds odd, but mixing 60ml of dish soap into four-and-a-half litres of water and then filling up a hand sprayer is one of the most incredible moss-killing recipes you could ever come across.”
Spraying this concoction on mossy areas and waiting a few days will result in the moss turning brown and drying out completely.
Iron sulphate (ferrous sulphate) is another highly recommended solution for moss removal, known for its quick action in killing moss and greening up the grass.
Upon application, it rapidly turns moss black by destroying its cell structure, which makes it simple to rake away. It also fortifies the grass with essential nutrients, aiding it to outcompete moss over time.
With these professional insights, you’re well-equipped to get your garden ready for a lush and vibrant spring. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, a little effort now ensures a flourishing lawn in the months ahead.