If there is a dry spell during this month, take the opportunity to mow the lawn.
Also, take the mower for servicing and sharpening, which extends the life of the machine and reduces its carbon footprint.
Week 2: January 8 – January 14
Mowing and Moss Control
Lawns can be mown at any time of the year but not when soggy after wet weather.
Mowing during January and February will leave the grass neat until March.
Moss-killer, in the form of sulphate of iron or lawn sand, can be used, although it is better applied in autumn.
Lawn Care Precautions
Do not walk on a lawn surface when it is soggy or frozen, as this can cause soil compaction and result in poor growth.
Week 3: January 15 – January 21
Lawn Protection and Drainage
Do not walk on a lawn when frosted, as this causes damage, while snow cushions the grass from damage.
If the lawn area has had drainage pipes installed, check if the drain outlets are clear to facilitate the removal of surplus water.
Lawn-mower Maintenance
Have the mower overhauled or serviced before the mowing season and plan to mow when the weather picks up.
Week 4: January 22 – January 28
Mowing and Lawn Preparation
If the lawn has drained well and the soil is firm, mow the lawn now.
If a lawn area is being prepared for sowing in the spring, it cannot be cultivated until the ground dries, but weed seedlings could be controlled using Roundup to prevent them taking the ground over and making it difficult to rake.
Moss Control
Control moss with sulphate of iron on a calm, dry day.
Week 5: January 29 – February 4
Early Mowing and Lawn Edging
Lawn areas should be mown as early as possible in the year if possible, but do not mow too tightly at this stage; a topping is all that is required to keep it looking neat.
Lawn edges could be tidied using an edging shears or a strimmer.
Moss Control and Lawn Repair
If there is heavy moss growth, a lawn moss killer can be applied at this stage, with lawn feeding later in spring to boost competitive grass growth.
Humps and hollows in a lawn can be removed while the soil is moist, and the sods are easily lifted to add or take away soil.
