Lawns can grow thicker and greener grass if gardeners do a 10-minute task in October

October is now almost over and time is running out to ensure grass survives winter, but it turns out there is an easy 10-minute task that will make the biggest difference.

There is a long list of jobs gardeners should consider doing in autumn to keep their lawn healthy, such as fertilising or aerating, as it helps the lawn roots grow a lot stronger.

However, the experts at Kent and Stowe have revealed that most people neglect the simplest, yet most important, task which is clearing up garden leaves.

The expert said: "As autumn arrives, falling leaves quickly build up on the lawn. If left, this layer of damp material blocks out light and air, weakening the grass underneath and creating the perfect environment for moss to spread. Damp, rotting leaves create an ideal environment for lawn moss to thrive, while a blanket of leaves on paths, patios and driveways can form a slip hazard."

Why do you need to pick up fallen leaves from a lawn?

Leaving wet fallen leaves on a lawn is one of the most common mistakes gardeners make in autumn, as it blocks sunlight from reaching the grass, preventing it from photosynthesising.

Without enough light, the lawn cannot store the energy it needs to stay healthy through winter, and makes it more likely for it to become weak, brittle, and yellow by spring.

A lack of energy also stops the root growing deeper, so the grass is will struggle to survive common winter issues like cold, foot traffic, and pests.

Wet leaves also hold on to moisture after it has rained, and if the grass remains damp for too long, it will encourage moss, weeds, and fungal spores, which can lead to a range of lawn diseases.

Taking the time to pick up leaves once a week in autumn is the easiest way to stop a lawn dying over winter and ensure it stays strong over the colder months.

What other gardening jobs should you do before winter?

Picking up leaves is the best way to help a lawn naturally build up its energy, but if the grass constantly seems damp, then you might want to consider scarifying it.

Over the year lots of dead foliage tends to build up on top of the grass, and scarifying is the simple gardening practice of removing this layer to keep the grass healthy.

Lawns soil tend to become compacted if it is constantly being walked on, so you should also consider aerating it, which is just using a pitchfork to poke holes into the ground.

If you have any trees hanging over your garden then it can also help to cut them back as too much shade on your lawn can encourage moss and pests.

Late October is the last time you will be able to fertilise a lawn until next year, so feed it now and to ensure the grass thieves after winter.