Frequently Asked

Spring Grass

Questions

🌸 Spring Lawn Care Canberra: FAQ Guide

Q1: What are the essential spring lawn care steps in Canberra?

A: As Canberra thaws, your lawn needs a focused spring routine to rebalance and prepare for summer:

  1. Clean up debris - rake away leaves, twigs and wintery thatch to prevent mould and improve soil aeration.

  2. Aerate compacted areas - core aeration creates air pockets that boost nutrient, water, and oxygen intake.

  3. Apply balanced fertiliser - a light spring fertiliser with nitrogen supports new growth without overwhelming the lawn.

  4. Overseed or patch bare spots - sow quality grass seed after aeration to promote density and a fresh spring look.

  5. Early weed control - apply selective or pre‑emergent herbicides (e.g. Oxafert) before weeds establish.

Q2: When should I aerate in spring Canberra?

A: Aim for late August to early September, when the soil is warming but not yet dry. Bunnings and local experts agree – aerate before fertilising or seeding to maximise nutrient uptake.

Q3: What mowing adjustments should I make this spring?

A: Follow these mowing best practices:

  • Start mowing once the grass consistently grows above 5 cm.

  • Cut only one-third of the leaf blade to avoid stress (Southern Living "one-third rule").

  • Mow in mid-morning or late afternoon when grass is dry; wet mowing risks uneven cuts and disease (Southern Living & The Spruce).

Q4: Can I water my lawn in spring?

A: Yes, but sparingly. Rely on rainfall first; supplement with early-morning, deep watering (once per week, 10–15 mm). Overwatering can lead to fungus if the soil stays damp overnight.

Q5: Which fertiliser should I use in spring Canberra?

A: A balanced NPK fertiliser fuels green growth. Lawnpride and Yates recommend a spring-specific formula. Slow-release options with some potassium and iron are ideal for early season colour without promoting fast stress-prone growth.

Q6: When should I apply pre-emergent weed control?

A: Apply pre-emergent treatments in early spring to block weed seeds before germination. Products like Oxafert last several weeks; the ideal timing is late winter to early spring.

Q7: Is it safe to overseed in spring?

A: Yes! Spring is ideal for overseeding since warm-season grasses will grow quickly. Prepare by aerating/dethatching, choose quality seed, and keep the area lightly watered until established .

Q8: What pests should I watch for in spring?

A: Look for early armyworm, black beetle, or grub signs, birds digging or random bare patches. Catching pests early allows for targeted treatment before summer damage occurs (Turf Farm spring tips).

Q9: Is wetting agent use necessary in spring?

A: If your soil was dry or hydrophobic over winter, applying a wetting agent before spring watering helps evenly saturate the root zone and avoid shallow watering issues.

Q10: Can I upgrade my lawn in spring?

A: Yes - spring is perfect for minor renovations:

  • Spot seed sparingly or lay turf rolls in small patches if soil and weather conditions allow.

  • Major lawn overhauls are best saved for autumn, but small touch-ups spring well during warmer stabilising weather.

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