Can Fertilising Turf in Winter Help?

We’ve had a relatively mild start to winter, but as temperatures begin to plunge, you may start experiencing winter die-back, often a result of sunlight and airflow being significantly reduced. Rather than accepting sparse growth and already conceding to an unhealthy lawn when spring rolls around next year, there are plenty of proactive measures you can take.

Fertilising your turf is essential in protecting the lawn from frost damage, helping to strengthen the roots, and repairing any damage from the summer months. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of fertilising your turf in winter and see how you can ensure your lawn remains healthy and vibrant.

Winter lawn care doesn’t have to be complicated

For newbies, the world of fertilisers can be rather daunting, especially with so many products on the market. The good news is you don’t need to be an expert in chemistry or soil science to use winter fertiliser effectively. Many seasoned gardeners and landscapers recommend fertilising turf during the early weeks of winter, giving your lawn a chance to absorb vital nutrients from the fertiliser when conditions are mild, promoting healthy root growth.

By providing your lawn with additional nutrients, you can protect it against snow mould and frost damage whilst kickstarting the recovery from the unbearable summer heat. The fertiliser contains a blend of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, supplying vital nutrients to the turf and building up the natural defences against cold weather. In addition, fertiliser helps to create strong root systems in the soil, making them less susceptible to the cold and able to withstand the winter months.

What fertiliser is best to use in the Winter, and how do I apply it?

The best fertiliser to use during winter is a slow-releasing pellet formula. We recommend Nourish – Autumn/Winter Fertiliser as it gradually provides lawns with nutrients over time instead of one sudden and concentrated burst that could damage or scorch the lawn due to an overload. This way, your turf will be better equipped to withstand frosty temperatures and dry spells.

When applying fertiliser, you must spread it across the lawn evenly so that every blade of grass gets the same amount of nutrients, paying particular attention to the edges as this is where frost damage is most likely to occur. The best way to ensure an even spread is to use a garden spreader, but if you don’t have one, you can also apply it by hand. Once applied, water the lawn thoroughly to ensure the fertiliser reaches down into the soil and roots. This will help promote healthy growth and protect the turf against frost damage.

Accelerate grass growth for the New Year

Now that you know more about the benefits of fertilising turf during wintertime be sure to take the time to treat your turf to a healthy dose of nutrients. Not only will this help keep your lawn looking great, but it will also make it more resilient to the harsh, forever-changing climate.

If you need further advice or help choosing the right fertiliser for your lawn, our experts at George Davies Turf can provide you with the best advice, ensuring you keep your turf looking lush and green all year round. So, don’t wait until spring to take action – get your turf looking vibrant, fresh and luscious for 2023.