Garden Studios

It’s had a tricky year this year and very will appreciate slightly TLC.

You’ve sat on it, played games on it, cut it back at any time when it has tried to grow, added to which summer drought after which torrential rain has stopped it growing, started it up again and customarily given it a little bit a beating.

Now you could, after all, just ignore it and let it get on with life, but my five-point plan will guarantee that it’s far better equipped to provide its all again next year in case you take time to position maters right over the following couple of weeks.

When the elements has cooled down and rains are, over again, encouraging grass growth, go over the lawn with the mower, cutting it no less than an inch. That’s step no 1.

Next, hire a powered lawn raker. (You are able to do the job with a wire-toothed rake for those who like – it is going to improve your abs no end – but a powered lawn raker is each piece as efficient and easier at the body.)

Go over the lawn pushing the raker from side to side just like vacuuming a carpet. Check the setting first to make certain it’s not too low, or you’ll emerge as pulling out greater than you bargained for.

The aim is to tear out dead grass (thatch) and moss, leaving the living grass extra space to grow.

The lawn will look slightly a sight when you’ve finished the job, but you will be doing it an influence of excellent in the end.

Step number three is to spike the full area.

You can try this with a garden fork, stabbing it in to a depth of 4in every 6in or so around the lawn and wiggling it about.

Alternatively, you’ll be able to hire a lawn aerator in an effort to remove small cores of soil which could then be brushed or raked of.

For step four, sweep sharp sand into the crevices the spiker has created when you garden on heavy soil that may be badly drained, or John Innes No.2 potting compost in case your garden soil is sandy and susceptible to dry out.

Step number five is to use an autumn lawn feed. As an organic gardener i really like to take advantage of blood, bone and fishmeal, but proprietary lawn feeds designed for autumn use also are available.

(Avoid feeds designed for spring use for the reason that high levels of nitrogen they contain will encourage excessive sappy growth, that is undesirable in autumn.)

With your autumn lawn-care programme completed, you may rest assured that by next spring your greensward shall be fighting fit and an excellent complement to the home.

Do it every autumn and your lawn would be the envy of your neighbours and a credit in your handiwork!

For additional info on his range of gardening products, visit www.alantitchmarsh.com.