It can be challenging to achieve a healthy lawn that stays green all summer thanks to kids, pets and the warmer temperatures. However, whether for entertaining, relaxing, or simply enjoying a well-kept garden, experts are now saying that there is a superfood ingredient that could be “the key for maintaining lush green grass”.
While there are many chemical-filled lawn fertilisers and treatments on the market to improve the appearance and health of grass, there are natural options to go for. Nia Lisseter, B&Q’s Turf expert, recommends the use of seaweed, and so do the lawn specialists at LawnSmith. Nia explained: “Seaweed is a powerful natural ingredient that helps lawns withstand harsh weather and recover more quickly.
“Rich in micronutrients, natural hormones, and proteins, it boosts both plant and soil health and is perfect for use between February and October.”
The pros at LawnSmiths added that seaweed promotes “health, goodness and biological activity” within the grass and the soil, producing a “greener, stronger and more disease resistant lawn”.
However, it is recommended to use seaweed alongside a regular fertiliser. The experts said: “Seaweed by itself has some benefits, but it is not a substitute for fertiliser. It is blooming dynamite, however, if applied with fertiliser.”
Seaweed improves the performance of fertiliser, so it should be applied first. As a guide, apply granular or liquid fertiliser a week to a month after any application of seaweed.
If you are maintaining a regular supply of seaweed into the lawn, this becomes less important, though you should always look to apply fertiliser at least a few days after any seaweed application.
Nia also shared a few other ways to improve lawns. The first is to scarify, especially in spring. Scarifying in spring helps remove moss and thatch, allowing light, air, and nutrients to reach the soil.
This process prevents the formation of patchy or discoloured areas and strengthens grass from the roots up.
Scarifying can be achieved using a hand tool, such as a lawn rake (look for ones with spring tines) or a powered scarifier.
Spring is also an ideal time for aerating lawns to alleviate soil compaction and promote healthy root development. Tools such as aerator shoes or multi-prong forks can be used to introduce airflow beneath the surface.