Spring is the most important season for lawn care. What you do in March and April will determine how your garden looks all the way through to autumn. Here are five simple steps you can take right now.
1. Scarify to Remove Thatch
Winter leaves a layer of dead grass, moss, and debris (known as “thatch”) sitting on your lawn. This blocks light, water, and nutrients from reaching the roots. A good scarify with a spring-tine rake (or a powered scarifier for larger lawns) removes this layer and dramatically improves drainage.
When to do it: Mid-March to April, once the ground has dried out a little.
2. Aerate Compacted Soil
Foot traffic, frost, and rain compacts your lawn’s soil over winter, restricting root growth and causing waterlogging. Push a garden fork 10–15cm into the ground every 10–15cm across the lawn, or hire a hollow-tine aerator for a more thorough job.
Tip: Spread sharp sand into the holes after aerating to improve drainage long-term.
3. Overseed Bare or Thin Patches
After scarifying and aerating, bare patches are much more receptive to seed. Apply a good-quality grass seed mix suited to your conditions (shaded lawns need a different mix from full-sun lawns). Keep the area moist for two to three weeks until the seed germinates.
Key: Don’t mow new growth until it’s at least 7–8cm tall.
4. Apply a Spring Lawn Feed
Your lawn is hungry after winter. A spring/summer fertiliser with a high nitrogen content (the first number on the bag) will kickstart growth and restore that rich green colour. Apply according to the packet instructions, as over-feeding can cause more harm than good.
5. Get Your First Cut Right
The first mow of spring sets the tone for the season. Keep the blades high (around 4-5cm) for the first couple of cuts. Cutting too short too soon stresses the grass. Once growth is established and consistent, you can reduce to your preferred height.
If your lawn is in need of some serious attention this spring, the Peak Grounds team is here to help. We cover Nottingham, Derby, and across the East Midlands. Get a free quote today.