Should you stop mowing your grass now? Expert shares lawn care tips for autumn

The lawn has different requirements at different times of the year
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Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 30/10/2024

- 16:58

Gardeners need to tend to their lawns differently during the autumn months

Mowing the lawn is a big job during the summer, but the rate at which grass grows starts to slow in autumn.

An expert exclusively shared how to care for your lawn in the coming weeks.


Temperatures have dropped and our gardens will generally need less upkeep at this time of year.

However, that doesn't mean you should give up on your lawn just yet. Gardening expert at Allan's Gardeners Jane Dobbs shared tips for cutting the grass when the weather cools.

Mowing lawn

An expert shared advice for cutting your grass in autumn

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She told GB News: "You should still mow your grass regularly [at this time of year] since it will continue to grow more slowly as the weather cools.

"Cut your grass to about 5cm to 7cm in autumn by gradually lowering the mower's blade. It allows sunlight to reach the grass while preventing frost damage.

"Mow as needed throughout autumn, but do not cut the grass too short. While long grass becomes matted and attracts pests and diseases, short grass is more susceptible to frost."

With just a few weeks left of autumn, experts shared advice on getting the most out of your garden.

Jane continued: "You can benefit from leaving grass clippings on your lawn in the autumn.

"Decomposing grass clippings return valuable nutrients such as nitrogen to the soil, acting as a natural mulch. It will help nourish your lawn, resulting in a healthier lawn.

"Be sure to keep your clippings short and spread them evenly. Grass can be smothered if the clippings are too long or clumped together, resulting in fungal growth or patches.

"Clippings break down quickly if you mow frequently and at the right height."

lawn stock image

Gardeners are advised not to cut the grass too short during winter

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Many gardeners may want to use products on their lawns, but the expert advised waiting for the right weather conditions before doing this.

The gardening pro continued: "It's fine to put autumn lawn feed on wet grass, just not ideal. If you apply lawn feed to wet grass, it could stick to the blades, potentially causing uneven distribution.

"When concentrated amounts stay on certain spots, fertiliser can burn. When the grass is dry and the soil is moist, it's ideal to apply the feed. It helps if you water the lawn after application to get the feed in."

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