Tips, advice, and local insights on lawn care and property maintenance.
22 February 2026
A healthy, green lawn doesn't happen by accident. Whether you're maintaining a small front yard or a large property, these five practical tips will help you keep your lawn in top condition all year round.
1. Mow at the Right Height
One of the most common mistakes is cutting grass too short. Scalping your lawn weakens the roots and makes it more vulnerable to weeds and drought. A good rule of thumb is to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. Keep your mower blades sharp for a clean cut that helps the grass heal faster.
2. Water Deeply, but Less Often
Instead of light, frequent watering, give your lawn a deep soak less often. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making your lawn more drought-resistant and resilient. Early morning is the best time to water — it reduces evaporation and gives the grass time to dry before evening.
3. Feed Your Lawn Seasonally
Lawns need nutrients to thrive. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring and autumn to support healthy growth. Avoid fertilising during extreme heat or drought, as it can burn the grass. If you're unsure what your lawn needs, a soil test can help you choose the right product.
4. Deal with Weeds Early
The best defence against weeds is a thick, healthy lawn. But when weeds do appear, tackle them early before they spread and set seed. Hand-pulling works well for small patches, while targeted herbicides can handle larger infestations. Always follow product instructions carefully.
5. Aerate Your Soil
Over time, soil becomes compacted — especially in high-traffic areas. Compacted soil prevents water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots. Aerating your lawn once or twice a year (ideally in spring or autumn) helps break up compaction and promotes healthier root growth.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Edges Tidy
Clean, well-defined edges make a huge difference to the overall appearance of your lawn. Regular edging along paths, garden beds, and driveways gives your property a polished, professional look — even between mows.
22 February 2026
Hedge trimming isn't just about aesthetics — timing your trim correctly can make the difference between a lush, healthy hedge and one that struggles to recover. Here's what you need to know about when to schedule your hedge maintenance.
Late Winter to Early Spring
For most hedge species, the ideal time for a major trim is in late winter or early spring — just before new growth begins. This allows the plant to recover quickly and fill out during the warmer months. Pruning during dormancy also reduces stress on the plant.
Mid-Summer Touch-Up
A lighter trim in mid-summer helps maintain shape and tidiness. This is especially useful for fast-growing species like privet or box hedging that can quickly look overgrown after their spring flush of growth.
Avoid Trimming in Late Autumn
Trimming too late in the season encourages soft new growth that's vulnerable to frost and cold damage. It's best to let hedges harden off naturally before winter arrives.
Flowering Hedges
If your hedge produces flowers, timing matters even more. Trim spring-flowering hedges (like camellias) right after they finish blooming. Summer-flowering hedges can be trimmed in late winter before buds form.
How Often Should You Trim?
Most hedges benefit from 2–3 trims per year. Formal hedges may need more frequent attention, while informal native hedges can often get by with one or two good cuts annually.
Signs It's Time for a Trim
- The hedge is growing out of shape or looking uneven
- New growth is blocking pathways or views
- The top of the hedge is wider than the base (this blocks light from lower branches)
- Dead or damaged branches are visible
Regular maintenance keeps your hedges looking sharp and promotes healthy, dense growth. If you're unsure about the best timing for your specific hedge species, we're always happy to advise.