Spring is in Full Swing

Ah, October, finally we’ve had some warmer temperatures but the nights are still chilly. October is the month where spring is in full swing and everything starts to come alive. For those of us living in Adelaide, you know this is the time to give your lawn some extra love. So, let’s look at what you can do to get your lawn looking its best this month.

Your lawn needs good nutrition to grow strong and lush, and there’s no better time than October to fertilise. The soil is warming up, and your grass is starting to grow faster. Use a slow-release fertiliser that will feed your lawn over several weeks. Just follow the instructions on the bag, and you’re good to go.

Overwatering or underwatering can harm your lawn. A simple trick to check if your lawn needs water is the footprint test. Walk across the grass; if your footprints stay visible, it’s time to water. In Adelaide, the hot sun can dry out the soil quickly, so watering in the early morning or late afternoon is best. Aim for a deep soak rather than a light sprinkle to encourage strong root growth.

You may think that mowing your lawn frequently keeps it looking neat, but this can actually cause stress to the grass. In October, it’s best to keep your grass a bit longer to protect the soil from the hot sun and to retain moisture. As a general rule, never cut off more than one-third of the grass height at a time.

Weeds can be a real pain, stealing nutrients and space from your lawn. With the warmer weather, you’ll likely see them sprouting up more often. Get on top of them early by either pulling them out manually or using a targeted weed killer. Make sure to choose a treatment that won’t harm your lawn.

Your lawn’s roots need air to breathe and nutrients to grow. If the soil becomes too compacted, it can hinder this process. You can rent an aerator from your local hardware store or simply use a garden fork to make holes in the lawn. This helps to loosen the soil, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate more easily.

Finally, be on the lookout for pests like lawn grubs or ants. These critters can damage your lawn, causing unsightly patches. If you notice any signs of pests, treat your lawn with an appropriate insecticide, making sure it’s safe for your specific type of grass.

In summary, October is a crucial month for lawn care in Adelaide. Your lawn is coming out of its winter dormancy and getting ready for the hot summer ahead. Give it the right amount of water, don’t over-mow, keep an eye out for weeds and pests, and don’t forget to fertilise and aerate. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a lawn that’s the envy of the neighbourhood. Happy gardening!

If you need any assistance with lawn maintenance or a new turf installation, our team is always happy to help and you are welcome to give us a call. We can offer one off services and seasonal maintenance packages.