In winter, potted plants are brought to a frost-free place, sensitive ornamental plants are protected from cold temperatures with brushwood. What maintenance does the lawn require? Can you mow the lawn in winter?

In a nutshell

  • Scarifying and mowing not required in frosty conditions
  • We recommend watering the lawn on frost-free days when it is dry
  • last lawn mowing after the first night frost
  • Do not put unnecessary stress on the lawn when it is below zero to avoid frost damage

water the lawn

Until autumn begins, the lawn needs a regular supply of water. In the cold season, watering is usually not necessary. However, if temperatures are consistently above five degrees Celsius and the soil is very dry, the lawn will benefit from thorough winter watering. Wind can also cause the lawn to dry out.
If brown or light spots appear in the lawn after the winter, in most cases the grass has not frozen but dried up. Remove the dead plants and sow new lawn seed when no more frost is expected. Pour the area generously.

Notice: In spring and autumn it can happen that the days are warm, but there is a risk of ground frost the next. Avoid watering the lawn as the water freezes overnight and damages the roots.

scarify the lawn

If you want to optimally prepare your lawn for the winter, you should scarify it again in the fall. Scarifying is not necessary in winter.

fertilize lawn

  • last autumn fertilization with organic, potassium-rich fertilizer before the first night frosts
  • When using a mineral fertilizer, pay attention to the duration of action
  • Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers in autumn

cut the lawn

The lawn consists of different types of grass. These include slow-growing grasses that form a dense sub-lawn, as well as fast-growing, taller varieties. When deciding when to mow the lawn for the last time before winter, the needs of the undergrowth must be considered. The last mowing should be scheduled in such a way that they can still reach a sufficient height. We recommend mowing the lawn for the last time in early November. Even if the grass still grows a little after mowing, you should refrain from mowing the lawn again in winter.
The cutting height for the last lawn mowing of the year depends on the type of lawn:

  • Decorative lawn: 5 centimeters
  • Sports and play lawn: 5 centimetres
  • Shade lawn: 9 centimeters

The lawn should be cut short enough so that the different types of grass can be evenly supplied with light.

Notice: The lawn clippings must not be left on the lawn before the onset of winter. Remove the clippings and distribute them on the beds or on the discs of your fruit trees.

Clear the lawn of leaves

  • do not leave large amounts of leaves on the lawn in winter
  • rot can occur

Tip: Thoroughly rake up the leaves from the lawn before winter sets in. Layer it outside the lawn as a winter home for small animals and insects. The small contribution helps to protect beneficial insects. You can always clear away the leaves in spring!

seed the lawn

  • latest time for sowing beginning of September
  • water thoroughly after sowing
  • It is better to sow lawn seeds in spring

Notice: The sowing of lawn seeds at sub-zero temperatures has no chance of success, because the seedlings do not survive the frost.

frequently asked Questions

Does lawn fertilization make sense in winter?

No, it is not necessary to fertilize the lawn in winter. The supply of organic fertilizer would not hurt, but also has no measurable effect. The administration of a mineral fertilizer in winter can lead to damage.

Can you walk on the lawn in winter?

Many experts advise against walking on the lawn in winter to protect the frozen stalks from breaking off and the soil from compaction. A healthy lawn will not suffer if you walk on it in winter. However, you should avoid heavy loads.

Can the snow stay on the lawn?

Yes, the snow forms a kind of protective layer for the lawn. However, it is a strain on the grass plants when children romp about on the surface in the snow. Avoid dumping large amounts of snow onto the lawn.

Category:

Garden design