As the temperature continues to drop across the Bellarine Peninsula, it’s easy to think your lawn can be ignored until spring. However, winter is one of the most important times to care for your lawn as well as your equipment. A little maintenance during the colder months can make all the difference between a lush, green lawn in spring and one that’s patchy, thin, and full of weeds.
Whether you live in Drysdale, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Portarlington, St Leonards, Clifton Springs, Indented Head, Queenscliff, or Leopold, these winter lawn care tips will help keep your lawn in top condition ready for Spring.
Most lawns across the Bellarine slow their growth during winter, but they don’t stop growing altogether. Cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and reduced sunlight create the perfect environment for moss, weeds, and fungal diseases if your lawn isn’t maintained properly. By investing a little time now, you’ll encourage stronger roots, reduce weeds, and enjoy a healthier lawn when warmer weather returns.
The first thing to remember, is to mow less in winter. Although your lawn grows slower during winter, regular mowing is still important. Instead of mowing every week, most Bellarine lawns will only need cutting every three to four weeks to keep it maintained and ensure it is not over mowed which could cause the grass to die off.
Here are a few key things to also remember when mowing in winter:
- Raise your mower height slightly.
- Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade.
- Keep mower blades sharp for a clean cut.
- Avoid mowing when the grass is wet.
A well-maintained mower delivers a cleaner cut and helps reduce stress on your lawn regardless of the time of year, so ensure that your mower has been serviced and its blades are nice and sharp when cutting.
Another important lawncare tip this winter is to keep a keen an eye on your lawn for weeds. Winter weeds like clover, capeweed, bindii, and winter grass become established during the cooler months. Treating weeds before spring prevents them from spreading throughout your lawn. Spot spraying or applying a selective lawn herbicide early can save hours of work later in the year, keeping your lawn clear of weeds, as well as debris and fallen leaves goes a long way to keeping it in top shape for spring.
It is also important to note that while fallen leaves may look harmless, they trap moisture and block sunlight from penetrating deep into the soil. Leaving debris and fallen leaves on your lawn can encourage:
- Lawn fungus
- Moss growth
- Dead patches
- Pest activity
A quality blower or rake will make quick work of clearing leaves especially after windy winter days.
As we know, winter days also bring heavy winter rains. Heavy winter rain is common across the Bellarine Peninsula between June and September, so making sure that your lawn has appropriate drainage is also key to keeping it in good shape. If water pools on your lawn, the roots can become deprived of oxygen, leading to disease and poor growth. Things to consider here include:
- Aerating compacted soil
- Filling low spots
- Improving drainage around garden beds
- Avoiding foot traffic on saturated lawns
Always remember, healthy roots start with healthy soil, so feeding your lawn as well as keeping it aerated will help promote growth for spring.
Many homeowners skip fertilising during winter, but applying a slow-release fertiliser formulated for cool-season maintenance can strengthen root development. Avoid high nitrogen fertilisers during winter, as they encourage soft leaf growth rather than strong roots. A balanced winter fertiliser helps prepare your lawn for vigorous spring growth.
Our last and a most crucial tip is to get your lawn mower serviced or repaired if needed. Winter is the perfect time to service your mower while it is not being used as much, this ensures that your blades are sharp, air filters have been replaced and your fuel system and safety checks have been completed. Booking a winter service means you’ll likely also avoid the spring rush and have your mower ready when the growing season begins.
At Drysdale Mowers, we’re proud to help homeowners, landscapers, and professional contractors maintain beautiful lawns all year round. So whether you need a new lawn mower, battery-powered garden tools, expert servicing, or advice on the right equipment for your property, our experienced team is here to help. Visit us in Drysdale or speak with our friendly staff about preparing your lawn for a healthy, vibrant spring.