Winter’s chill can wreak havoc on our gardens, leaving lawns looking lackluster come springtime. But fear not, green thumbs! You don’t have to resign yourself to a dreary landscape. A simple yet effective late-season task can significantly improve your lawn’s health and appearance. TikTok gardening guru, Ish (@gardening.with.ish), recently shared his expert advice on giving your lawn its final mow before winter’s full grip takes hold.
Ish’s recent video highlights the benefits of a final December mow, particularly in years with unusually mild weather. He points out that his lawn continued growing later into the season than usual, making one last trim essential. However, proper technique is crucial. To avoid damage, Ish recommends raising the mower blades higher than normal. It’s also vital to ensure the lawn is completely dry and free of frost before mowing. Mowing a wet lawn can lead to clumping and damage. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of collecting grass clippings. Leaving them on the lawn creates a soggy, compacted mess that hinders soil health and grass growth. He eloquently explains, “Today, I’m giving the lawn its final mow. As temperatures plummet, the grass will go dormant until spring. This way, I maintain a consistent lawn length throughout winter.” He adds a practical bonus, “Another reason for this final mow? All these leaves! No more bending down to collect them – the mower takes care of it!”
Ish’s video, viewed thousands of times, sparked a lively discussion amongst viewers. Many shared their varied approaches to the final autumn/winter mow, revealing a surprising range of practices. Some commented on mowing as late as November, while others pointed out the challenges of excessively wet conditions in their areas. One user even admitted to multiple November mows due to continued grass growth. Ish clarified that while the last mow usually falls in October or November in the UK, the ideal timing hinges on when grass growth ceases. This varies significantly based on the climate and geographical location. A key takeaway is that throughout autumn, the mowing frequency should gradually decrease, always observing weather conditions before undertaking the task.
The key message? A carefully executed final mow, avoiding wet conditions and using the correct mower height, can significantly improve your lawn’s health over winter, and it’ll be ready to burst forth with vibrant greenness in the spring. Remember, the timing isn’t about the calendar, but about the grass itself; a quick check for continued growth dictates when that final mow should happen. So, get outside and give your lawn the perfect send-off into winter!
