SEPTEMBER - LAWN CARE

With mild and damp conditions this is good month for lawn maintenance. Scarifying with a spring-tined rake (or power scarifier) will remove built up thatch to improve air-circulation and help prevent fungal problems. Using a hollow-tine aerator (or a garden fork) to create spikes 15cm deep at regular intervals will also help get oxygen to the roots of the grass. I top dress with a simple mix of fresh top-soil, sand and organic matter to fill the aeration holes. I see the RHS recommend this in the ratio of 3:6:1. There's still time for new grass seed to establish if sown on bare/worn areas. Finally if feeding make sure you use an autumn lawn feed which encourages root growth through winter, rather than leafy growth.