The Zimbabwean Gardener Issue 2 Spring 2012 | Page 26

Lawn maintenance
The Zimbabwean Gardener

Mowing

Grass consists of three parts: the root
system, which absorbs nutrients from the
soil, a stem to support the foliage, and the
top green growth, which makes food by
absorbing moisture and sunlight. Cutting
the grass down to its stem reduces its
food manufacturing ability, damages the
crown, and exposes the roots to sunlight.
Too much of this and the grass will die so
ensure that when you mow regularly, the
blades are not too low.

Regular cutting
in summer is the
secret to improving
your lawn as it
encourages new
growth and gives
you a thick lush
lawn.
In summer, lawns grow vigorously the
more you water and feed them. It is
important to mow frequently and not to
mow too low in summer. Regular cutting
in summer is the secret to improving your
lawn as it encourages new growth and
gives you a thick lush lawn. A thick well
established lawn will also help to push
out the weeds. In the growing season, try
and mow at least once a week, however,
it all depends on the grass you have
and how quickly it is growing. Buffalo
only requires mowing every two weeks
whereas Durban requires more.
In winter, growth slows down so you won’t
have to cut quite so frequently. It is best
to mow only when you think your lawn
looks like it is in need of a mow and a tidy
up. Just remember it is essential to have
a good lawn mower so your lawn has an
even look.

Aerating your lawn

Aeration is also important for your lawn as it breaks up the compacted roots
and allows water to go down deeper. The best time to aerate the lawn is just
before the wet seas ۋ