Caring for your lawn can be a challenging task, especially if you’re not aware of some of the most common mistakes you might be making that can lead to serious issues in the long term. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top five mistakes to watch out for when it comes to lawn care.
1. Mowing too short
Cutting your grass too short may seem like a great idea to avoid having to mow it again for a while, but it could actually be doing more harm than good and can lead to serious lawn-health issues in the long run. Over-cutting grass will reduce the surface area that is able to soak up crucial sunlight, making it thin and patchy as it doesn’t have enough nutrients to grow and is also stripped of essential moisture. We recommend mowing to a height of up to 1.5-2 inches in spring, 0.5-1 inch in summer and early autumn, and then finally 2-3 inches for the last few cuts of the year. A higher cut will help stimulate grass growth and encourage the blades to thicken over time, leading to healthier grass that is better at keeping weeds, diseases, and pests at bay.
2. Not mowing frequently enough
Neglecting to mow your lawn regularly can cause numerous issues, such as grass going to seed which is where it ends up looking more like a weed with white flowery stems. This can cause the grass to become extremely dense as the weight of the stems pulls grass flat. This heavy canopy of grass not only makes it harder to mow but it can also block out sunlight and prevent the absorption of moisture and nutrients. This could cause the grass to suffocate itself and makes an ideal home for many unwanted pests and insects.
We recommend investing in a high-quality lawnmower that can make the job quicker and more efficient. Our cordless MX3440V lawnmower is a powerful tool that makes mowing simple and easy. It runs off a battery meaning you can also save time trying to find a plug socket or setting the mower up. You could even consider investing in a robotic mower such as the Mowbot, which is capable of navigating around the garden by itself so you can put your feet up and let it do the work!
3. Using blunt, dirty, or damaged blades
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is using blunt or damaged blades to mow the lawn as this could cause you to shred the grass as opposed to slicing it. This will be easy to spot as it will cause discolouration, rip out clumps of turf and patches of dead lawn that are more susceptible to pests and diseases. Make sure to regularly give blades a clean if not after each mow. If you think your blades need sharpening, take your tool to a professional or ensure you have the correct tools and safety equipment to undertake the task correctly and safely. We recommend sharpening your lawnmower blades a couple of times a year at a minimum.
4. Overwatering
Overwatering your lawn can lead to the ground becoming waterlogged, which hinders the circulation of air, water, and nutrients, adversely affecting grass root growth and making them more susceptible to diseases. The lack of air pockets in waterlogged soil deprives plants and grass of essential oxygen, weakening roots and making them more vulnerable. This can result in nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and encourage the growth of harmful fungi like mould, mildew, and rust that cause lasting damage to lawns. If the ground feels hard and rainwater runs off easily, it indicates the lawn is waterlogged and shows the need for aeration.
Aerating the lawn enhances air and water movement in the soil, fostering a healthier root system that can better withstand periods of drought or waterlogging. Use the Cobra SA32E Electric Scarifier and Aerator on high-traffic or heavily compacted areas a couple of times a year to help facilitate air and moisture penetration for robust, vibrant growth.
5. Letting leaves and debris build-up
It can be tempting to let fallen leaves or debris build up but it is really important to regularly clear and rake as it can block out sunlight killing your lawn underneath. Leaving damp debris sitting on grass for a long period of time can also allow it to turn matted and cause thatch, becoming even harder to remove and encouraging fungus to grow. Leaves also prevent daylight and nutrients from reaching the grass, causing lots of future problems like weeds and moss. Regularly make the effort to remove debris with a scarifier to make the job less time-consuming in the long run. You can even use the organic matter to make compost or mulch ready for any new planting.
Avoiding these five lawn care mistakes can help keep your lawn healthy, green, and looking its best. With a little bit of attention and care, you can have a lush and vibrant lawn that you can be proud of.
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