Keep Your Lawn Healthy During Wet Weather

As the rain pours down and the grass grows lush, it’s time to tackle the challenges of maintaining a healthy lawn in wet conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie to lawn care, here at Joondalup Turf Farm, we will provide you with the insights and tips you need to keep your wet lawns looking their best, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.  

Caring for your lawn during wet weather requires a combination of patience, diligence, and strategic maintenance. By incorporating proper aeration, fertilisation, and mowing techniques into your lawn care routine, you can ensure that your lawn remains lush and healthy year-round. Don’t let wet weather dampen your lawn’s beauty – let’s dive into some expert tips to keep it lush and healthy.  

Should You Fertilise Your Lawn Before Rain? 

Fertilising your lawn before a rainstorm can be a game-changer when it comes to keeping your grass healthy and vibrant. The key is to time it just right. Ideally, you want to apply your fertiliser a day or two before the rain is expected to arrive. 

The reason for this is simple: the rain will help to wash the fertiliser down into the soil, where the grass roots can readily absorb the nutrients. This ensures that your lawn gets the nourishment it needs to thrive, even in the wet conditions. 

When choosing a fertiliser, look for one that’s specifically formulated for wet weather. These products are designed to be more water-soluble, making them easier for the grass to take up. Avoid using heavy, slow-release fertilisers, as they may not have time to break down before the rain washes them away. 

Can You Mow Your Lawn in the Rain? 

The short answer is yes, you can mow your lawn in the rain, but it’s not always the best idea. Wet grass can be more challenging to cut, and it can also lead to some undesirable consequences. 

One of the main issues with mowing wet lawns is that it can cause the blades to become dull more quickly. The moisture in the grass can also clog up your mower, making it less efficient and potentially causing damage to the machine. 

Additionally, mowing wet grass can leave behind clumps and clippings that can smother the lawn and create an unsightly appearance. These clumps can also harbor fungal diseases, which can be a real problem in wet weather. 

If you do need to mow in the rain, try to do so as soon as possible after the rain has stopped. This will give the grass a chance to dry out a bit, making the mowing process easier and more effective. And be sure to clean your mower thoroughly after use to prevent any issues. 

Aerating Your Lawn After Rain 

Aeration is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy lawn, and it’s especially important after periods of heavy rain. When the soil becomes waterlogged, it can become compacted, which can prevent air, water, and nutrients from reaching the grass roots. 

Aerating your lawn after a rainstorm can help to alleviate this problem by creating small holes or channels in the soil. This allows air and water to penetrate more easily, and it also helps to break up any thatch build-up that may have occurred. 

The best time to aerate your wet lawn is when the soil is moist but not completely saturated. This usually means waiting a day or two after a heavy rain before getting to work. 

When aerating, be sure to use a core aerator, which will remove small plugs of soil from the lawn. This is more effective than a spike aerator, which simply pokes holes in the surface without removing any soil. 

After aerating, you may want to consider top-dressing your lawn with a thin layer of compost or topsoil. This can help to fill in the holes and provide additional nutrients for the grass to thrive. 

Remember, keeping your lawn healthy in wet weather is all about striking the right balance. By following these tips, you can ensure that your grass stays lush, green, and resilient, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. 

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your lawn care needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Joondalup Turf Farm. We’re always happy to share our expertise and help you achieve the perfect lawn, no matter the weather.