Frequently Asked

Winter Grass

Questions

❄️ Winter Lawn Care for Canberra

Q1: Does my lawn need care during Canberra winter?

A: Absolutely. Even though most lawns enter dormancy across Canberra’s cold months, a simple care routine sets a strong spring foundation.

Essential actions include:

  1. Clear debris - remove leaves and twigs weekly to improve sunlight and airflow.

  2. Mow sparingly - typically every 4–6 weeks; keep blades sharp to prevent tearing.

  3. Selective watering - only water during dry spells (10+ days) and only in the morning to reduce disease risk.

  4. Weed control - target binds and winter grass using broadleaf treatments before seedheads emerge.

  5. Soil prep - apply conditioners, lime, and wetting agents to enhance spring readiness.

These simple steps ensure your lawn transitions into spring healthy and resilient.

Q2: How often should I mow in winter?

A: Mowing in Canberra winter should be minimal but precise:

  • Monitor occasional growth on warm-season grasses.

  • Once growth resumes, mow at 6–8 cm height every 4–6 weeks.

  • Avoid mowing wet, frosty, or frozen grass to prevent blade damage or disease.

  • The last cut should be about a week before frost onset, adhering to the “one-third rule”, where you never reduce more than 1/3 of blade height.

Q3: Do I need to water my lawn in winter?

A: Only if there hasn’t been rainfall for 10–14 days. Best practice:

  • Water early morning only.

  • Use a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle to comply with ACT watering rules.

  • Avoid nocturnal watering to lower disease risk.

Q4: What weeds should I watch out for in winter?

A: In Canberra winter, common lawn weeds include winter grass, creeping oxalis, clover, and bindii. Control them with broadleaf herbicides before seed production. A focused winter weed treatment prevents a major spring weed breakout.

Q5: Can I fertilise or treat my lawn in winter?

A: Yes, but with caution:

  1. No quick-growth nitrogen fertilisers.

  2. Consider potassium-rich or winter blend fertilisers to strengthen root systems.

  3. Apply soil conditioners or wetting agents to prepare the soil for spring hydration.

  4. Avoid dethatching or aeration too deeply; reserve this for late winter or early spring.

This approach ensures your lawn stays healthy, not overstressed, during dormancy.

Q6: Are pests still active in winter?

A: Less so, but vigilance pays. Grubs and beetles may overwinter underground; dry skins or small yellowing patches could hint at their presence. Inspect the soil and consider light pest treatments before spring emerges.

Q7: Is aeration safe in Canberra winter?

A: Light aeration can be beneficial, especially to relieve compaction. Avoid deep core aeration until late winter or early spring to minimise stress on dormant roots.

Q8: What should I include in my winter lawn checklist?

A:

  1. Rake debris weekly

  2. Mow dry grass every 4–6 weeks

  3. Water only if needed (morning only)

  4. Monitor and control key weeds

  5. Use winter-specific lawn feed

  6. Consider light soil conditioning

  7. Inspect for early pest activity

  8. Prep aeration & overseeding plan for spring

  9. Check mower and tools

  10. Capture changes for a spring report back to The Lawn Firm

Q9: Can I lay or repair turf during winter?

A: Yes - winter is prime for turf repairs:

  • Prepare soil with lime, compost, and mild conditioners.

  • Overseed or patch small areas using compatible turf.

  • Light watering after installation ensures establishment, following ACT watering.

Q10: How do water restrictions affect winter care?

A: Under ACT Permanent Water Conservation Measures (June–August), you can use sprinklers or hoses any time, provided there’s no runoff. Always confirm on ACT’s Waterwise website before scheduling care.

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