The Lawn Care Guide - December

"There's one good thing about snow, it makes your lawn look as nice as your neighbour's." Clyde Moore

Well, I’m guessing you’ve hung up your boots by now as far as the lawn is concerned. If by some chance there is still one last cut to be done then you need to be leaving the grass not too short. Some length will benefit it through the winter. I was told only this morning by someone in Scotland they were looking out onto snow and for most of us, where it’s not snowing, our December lawn care will be confined to brushing away the worm casts that promote moss and weed growth and sweeping off leaves and debris that somehow manage to cling on after the autumn clean up. Lightly aerating with a fork or solid tines will help winter surface drainage if it’s not too wet so you’re prepared for when there is heavy rainfall.

As always, try to keep off the grass when it’s frosty or has a light dusting of snow. It’s also a time for observation. Look for areas of the lawn that might become shaded come spring and summer and take steps if you can to cut back overhanging shrubs and branches. Signs of disease may be evident and you can make notes on areas to be treated. There may be evidence of ‘fairy rings’ - those areas tales of superstition and myth told us were caused by a circle of dancing pixies. Fruiting mushrooms and toadstools, some poisonous and funghi generally colonising the soil, are the more likely cause. Consider, as you put your (bootless) feet up to rest, your plans for the lawn and your regime next year for a verdant sward.