Ready steady mow and sow | The Ultimate Spring Lawn Care Guide

As the sun starts to shine and the days gradually lengthen, signalling the onset of spring, it's the perfect time to breathe new life into your lawn. After months of dormancy, and let’s face it, one of the wettest Decembers we’ve seen, your lawn may have lost some of its lustre, but with a little care and attention, it can quickly transform into a revitalised sea of green once again. From raking away debris and thatch to aerating the soil and applying a fresh layer of seed and the first mow of the year, the UK’s oldest and most trusted lawn seed brand, Johnsons Lawn Seed has the advice to kickstart the rejuvenation process.

When to mow your lawn after winter

As the frost fades and spring begins to bloom, a common question we are asked is when should you first mow your lawn after winter? The answer lies in the height of the grass - once it reaches a modest 5-8cm (2-3 inches), it’s time to bring out your mower. Begin with a light trim, gradually lowering the blades until they sit at an optimal cutting height of 25mm (1 inch).

The timing of your inaugural mow depends on the most talked about topic, the weather. Spring showers may leave your lawn damp, making it less than ideal for mowing. Wet grass can flatten under the mower blades, resulting in an uneven cut that can damage the grass and leave your lawn vulnerable to pests and diseases. It’s best to wait for a dry spell to ensure an effective and efficient mow.

The perils of mowing too early

Don’t be too tempted to mow too early, especially if we have colder overnight temperatures. Starting too early in the season can spell trouble for your lawn as premature mowing can stress the dormant grass blades, weaken the root system, and increase susceptibility to disease. Also, it can lead to thatch buildup and encourage weed growth, disrupting the grass's natural processes during its dormant period.

The first mow

When tackling that first mow of the year, remember this expert tip: don't cut off more than one-third of the grass blade height. This gentle approach helps maintain the health and vigour of your lawn, setting the stage for lush growth throughout the season.

Consider the timing of your mow as well in the daytime. We recommend you avoid early morning dew, which can make for a soggy cut and potential damage to your grass. Instead, aim for mid-morning when the dew has dried, but the day is still cool enough to prevent stress on your lawn.

Frequency matters

Once you’ve made that first pass with the mower, how often should you follow suit? Aim to mow your lawn no more than once every two weeks, barring particularly mild weather. As summer sets in and growth accelerates, weekly mowing may be necessary to keep your lawn looking its best. By doing this part of your gardening routine, you can ensure a healthy, vibrant lawn that's the envy of the neighbourhood all season long.

Sowing and repairing with Johnsons Lawn Seed

When it comes to maintaining a healthy lawn, choosing the right seed is crucial. Every lawn is unique, with its own set of characteristics such as directional position, usage, drainage, and soil composition. Johnsons Lawn Seed is the go-to for its innovative mixes that are designed for different outdoor spaces. Backed by the expertise of its parent company DLF Seeds, Johnsons offers a wide range of meticulously selected and tested grass species that will suit different types of gardens.

For instance, if your lawn sees a lot of wear and tear due to heavy foot traffic or you are a pet owner, Tuffgrass would work for you. Tuffgrass is resistant to pet urine, making it ideal for dog owners. Shady Lawn offers a tailored solution for those darker corners. Luxury Lawn is designed for those who want ornamental, finely manicured, striped, green lawns and for everyday lawn care, General Purpose is a versatile option for all homeowners.

Looking for rapid germination for those sunny garden parties? Quick Lawn is designed for a faster establishment and minimal maintenance, while After Moss is perfect for filling in moss patches and preventing their return after scarifying.

Consumer Manager, Guy Jenkins said "By following these steps in the spring and selecting the appropriate seed mix, you can ensure the health and vitality of your lawn, tailored to your unique requirements. With Johnsons Lawn Seed, you can rest assured that you're getting a quality product carefully crafted to meet your lawn's specific needs. Remember, timing is key - mow with caution, sow with precision, and watch your gardens flourish with the lawn of your dreams."