Gardening expert shares tips on how to get a healthy lawn this summer

Summer is just around the corner which can only mean it's time to get out into the garden. Whether you're keen to have a BBQ, enjoy the sunshine or have family and friends over, our gardens remain a hub of the home.

But sometimes our garden needs a bit of extra TLC in particular - our lawn. Sometimes our grass can have yellow patches but that doesn't necessarily mean that our lawn is ruined.

One landscaping expert has shared how to stop yellow patches on your lawn this summer.

Despite many thinking that warm weather causes damage, it's actually wet weather that's often the issue - something that's very common in the UK. 

However, the most common mistakes due to discolourisation are also mowing mistakes. This is according to Steven Bell, a managing director at Paving Shopper, who has shared his tips for a green lawn.

What are the common causes of a yellow lawn?

Bell explained: "Often, yellow patches on your lawn are due to wet weather and improper mowing techniques rather than just dryness. Understanding these factors is crucial to lawn care."

Dull blades

It turns out a big problem for yellow lawns is using a mower with dull blades.

Bell said: "If your lawn has white tips, it's a sign that the mower is tearing the grass blades rather than cutting them cleanly.

"Ensure that mower blades are sharpened after every 25 hours of use to prevent this."

Diseases

Secondly, fungal diseases can also cause lawn discolouration. In particular, there are two prevalent fungi: Red thread and Sclerotinia homoeocarpa.

"Red thread gives your lawn a reddish tint during warm, wet weather. Applying a high-nitrogen fertiliser can help treat and prevent this fungus," says Bell.

He adds: "Sclerotinia homoeocarpa results in small, circular patches of dead grass that appear bleached or straw-coloured. Regular mowing can help prevent this disease."

How to get a healthy lawn?

The landscaping pro has shared his tips on how to maintain healthy green grass throughout the summer.

Bell said: "Mowing your lawn regularly prevents many issues. It helps control fungal diseases and keeps the grass healthy.

"Over-watering can be as detrimental as under-watering. Water your lawn early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal growth."

Aeration

Bell advised: "Aerating your lawn allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. This can be done using a garden fork or an aerator."

Fertilisation

He suggested: "Applying the right fertiliser at the right time can make a significant difference. Use a high-nitrogen fertiliser in the spring and autumn to promote healthy growth."