Seven Things You Should Never Do to Your Lawn or Risk ‘Weed Invasions’ and ‘Bald Spots’

As British gardens come to life with vibrant greens and a kaleidoscope of floral hues, it’s essential to keep your lawn perfect.

However, without proper care, lush lawns can quickly become patchy, dry and discolored. For those who dream of the ideal green carpet, there are certain pitfalls to avoid at all costs.

STIHL Product and Marketing Manager Paul Hicks has identified seven cardinal sins that could lead to ‘weed invasions’ and ‘bald patches’ in your garden.

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1. Never cut your grass too short, reports the Express.

Paul warns: “Many people think that by mowing the lawn at the shortest setting, you are reducing the number of times it will need to be mowed, however, you are actually putting the grass at risk of weed invasions and grub infestations.”

He advises: “You only need to cut about a third of the length at a time because grass thrives when it has more leaf surface area.”

2. Do not leave covered areas

It might be a challenge for those with limited space or children, but it’s vital to ensure items such as pools, goalposts and garden furniture are stored away to allow your lawn to breathe.

Leaving these items outside can lead to “bald spots” or cause the grass to “discolor and turn yellow” during warmer periods.

3. Always collect fallen leaves

Neglecting to pick up fallen leaves can prevent sunlight from reaching the grass, essentially suffocating it.

Only three weeks is all it takes for the leaves to start damaging the grass.

4. Stop over watering

Paul debunked a “common misconception” that grass needs daily watering, explaining that over-watering can lead to addiction. He advised: “So instead of watering every day for 15 minutes, choose one day a week to water your lawn for a longer period of time. This will make the lawn healthier and more drought tolerant.”

During the summer, it is recommended to mow twice a week, reducing to once a week in spring and autumn. Bare patches on the lawn need to be addressed promptly to avoid weed invasion, with reseeding being the optimal solution for these bald patches.

Finally, Paul emphasized the need for scarifying, stating: “Scarifying is essential to keeping your lawn healthy as it removes thatch and moss which, if left, can prevent thick grass from growing well.”

He added that this process allows “By penetrating the soil surface, scarification allows light, moisture and essential nutrients to be absorbed by the base.”