Damp conditions paired with weak grass can cause moss to appear on lawns (Image: Getty)
One area that needs particular attention at this time of year is your . After months of rain, freezing temperatures and snow, your lawn is likely looking a little worse for wear. Damp conditions paired with weak grass can cause to appear on lawns, especially in areas where there is poor drainage, shade and compacted soil. While moss might not seem like much of a problem, it can prevent grass from getting all of the water and nutrients it needs. Eventually, if left untreated, it can kill the grass.
Another issue that can plague lawns at this time of year is . Weeds compete with grass for sunlight, water, and nutrients and will quickly take over areas where there is less competition. Weeds can be highly adaptable, which means they can grow in even the most unlikely of places.
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Weeds compete with grass for sunlight, water, and nutrients (Image: Getty)
Preventing moss and weeds from appearing on lawns can be difficult, but completing one task this spring could keep them at bay.
British Garden Centres, the nation’s leading family-owned garden centre group, has shared its expert advice on scarifying lawns in spring.
Scarifying a lawn removes moss, thatch, and weeds that compete with grass for nutrients, water and light.
Removing these elements can promote a healthier lawn while improving aeration and irrigation.
The experts said this task is best done in spring or autumn when the grass is actively growing.
If the thatch is 2cm thick or more, the task must be completed annually, and biennially if it’s under 1cm.
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Manually scarifying lawns is easy and requires just one tool (Image: Getty)
Manually scarifying lawns is easy and requires just one tool – a rake. The experts said scarifying with a rake is cost-effective and eco-friendly and is perfect for use in small gardens with moss.
How to scarify lawns
Before you scarify your lawn, you need to mow it on a dry day. Make sure to mow it to about 2.5cm.
Mowing will help the scarifier reach the soil and the roots of the grass.
Rake your lawn in sections, only raking in one direction to pull up moss and thatch to avoid harming healthy grass.
Gather the debris and overseed any patchy areas with fresh grass seed. Water and feed the lawn regularly.