December is a time for gardeners to relax as there is not much to do outside, but there are a few quick five-minute jobs to ensure your grass stays as healthy as possible throughout winter. 

Lawns are extremely vulnerable at this time of year due to the freezing temperatures and windy days, which can cause grass to lose lots of moisture.

It is common for grass to brown and become brittle but Adam Witchell, a head groundsman at Forest Green Rovers, spoke to Ecotricity and explained how you can prevent this by giving the ground a good rake. 

Adam said: “Use a light rake or brush to keep the lawn free of leaves and debris. You can hire lawn vacuums or sweepers from local garden centres or DIY stores, although it’s better to keep off with heavier machines in the winter.”

Taking the time to get rid of any leaves on your is one of the most important gardening jobs in winter as fungal diseases spread through fallen foliage. 

If there are too many leaves and debris on your grass at this time of year it can also attract pests as well as weeds and moss to a lawn. 

Make sure to also take a look at your lawn mower before spring arrives as the colder weather can lead to rust or corrosion.

Take the time to wipe it down and make sure it is stored safely so you do not have to worry about it becoming damaged once you need to use it again. 

Adam said: “Use the winter as an opportunity to service or replace your mower ready for spring. Make sure the blades are in good condition and stay sharp.” 

Tour can sharpen the blades as well as check the spark plug, change the oil and clean the air filter to ensure the mower is in good condition for next year. 

It may sound strange, but not doing anything to the lawn and leaving it alone at this time of year will help keep it functioning as the worst thing you can do is mow it or put too much weight on the grass.

It is incredibly important to not mow your lawn in winter as the grass is currently dormant, and cutting it will take it out of its resting period and stress it out. 

Adam explained: “Try to rest the lawn as much as possible during winter by keeping off the grass, especially when it is wet or frosty. When it’s cold, the grass plants aren’t actively growing, so they won’t repair themselves until spring if they get damaged.

He added: “Only mow the lawn if it’s absolutely necessary, and don’t mow it at all if heavy frosts are expected or if the ground is very wet.”

Gardeners will be thrilled to learn that now is the time to stay inside and not spend too much time worrying about your lawn, and that simply keeping off it in winter will help the grass come back thicker and greener for 2025.