Gardeners are being urged to make holes in their lawns in March to help it thrive throughout the seasons ahead.
Meteorological spring has arrived which means gardens are beginning to wake up from their dormant winter state. As such, now is the ideal time to get going with various garden maintenance tasks to prepare for the growing season and this includes tending to your lawn. March marks the first month of the year for mowing lawns, with experts recommending a light mow on a high setting to help the grass lock in moisture.
Mowing should generally only be needed every couple of weeks to keep it in good condition, but there is another task gardening experts recommend in early spring – and that involves making holes across your lawn.
The soil on your lawn can become hard and compacted after the winter season, which makes it hard for new growth to push through.
To tackle this problem, experts say you should make small holes in your lawn using a garden fork to allow air, water and nutrients to soak into the soil more effectively.
It’s also worth raking the surface of your grass to clear any debris like fallen leaves and branches from the winter, which will give your lawn a chance to breathe.
Kate Turner, gardening expert at Miracle-Gro, said: “Let the lawn breathe. After months of winter rain and foot traffic, your lawn’s soil can become compacted and clogged with dead grass, making it hard for new growth to push through. The good news? A little gentle care goes a long way.
“Give your grass a light scarify, meaning gently rake over the surface to clear away any built-up debris. This will give your grass the breathing room it needs to thrive.
“Use a garden fork or aerator to then make small holes across the lawn, helping water and nutrients reach the roots where they’re needed most. Just keep it light at this time of year, as fresh spring growth is more delicate than you might think.”
By aerating your lawn, you are allowing oxygen to be more easily absorbed back into the soil which stimulates and encourages root growth, which will lead to a healthier lawn overall.
The process will also help reduce the build up of thatch and moss below the surface and improve drainage, while also helping to prevent weeds.
Ms Turner added: “With a little effort this March, early spring care will prepare your lawn for looking its best throughout the growing season.
“Small, gradual steps now, with careful feeding, seeding, aerating all add up to a lawn that’s lush, green, and ready to enjoy for all spring and summer.”
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