Archive for April 2024

Mowing advice on getting your lawn fit for Spring

Spring has finally arrived, which means it’s time to prepare your lawn for the upcoming season. Our garden lawns are the ‘go to place’ for outdoor summer activities, such as hosting parties and providing a space for relaxation, play, and dining. So to set your lawn up for the summer, follow these practical tips for the first cut:

1. Clear up beforehand

After months of bad weather, remove any debris like dead sticks, leaves, and rubbish. Check for stones and thick branches hidden in the grass that can damage the lawnmower blade.

2. Timing is key

In the first two weeks of April, it’s usually the best time to give your garden lawn a good trim. However, the timing can vary depending on your location.

3. Follow the “one third” rule

When mowing for the first time, never cut more than a third of the grass blade. Gradually reduce the grass length over a few weeks to avoid stressing the grass and prevent disease and weed infestation.

4. For longer grass

If your lawn has grown longer than desired, still follow the one third rule but decrease the cutting height gradually over multiple weeks until you reach your preferred length.

5. Pay attention to the edges

Trim the edges of your lawn after mowing to avoid a messy appearance and wasted effort.

6. Consider new grass seeds

If you’ve recently repaired your lawn with new grass seeds, wait until it has grown over three inches in length before mowing to allow it to strengthen.

7. Make it a habit

After the first cut, maintain the desired grass length by mowing once or twice a week, as warm weather encourages grass growth.

8. Choose the right equipment

Consider the condition and size of your lawn, as well as your gardening needs, when selecting a lawnmower.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn is ready for a summer of enjoyment. If you need any help or advice on whether your lawnmower or ride-on-mower is ready for the new season then please call us on 01403 283814 and we’ll be delighted to help.

 

5 essential steps to get your lawnmower ready for spring

Did you know that cutting your grass when it gets too long can harm your lawn? As spring is finally here and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to start mowing your lawn. But before you begin, make sure your lawnmower is in good condition and learn how to keep it running smoothly during the season.

Here are our top tips:

  1. Change the fuel

For petrol mowers, drain the fuel from the previous season as it can spoil over time. If there’s leftover fuel from the winter, replace it with fresh fuel according to your instruction manual.

  1. Check the oil

Petrol mowers need oil to lubricate the machinery. Depending on your lawnmower, the oil may need to be added separately or combined with the fuel. Refer to your manual for instructions on oil maintenance.

  1. Inspect the power cable

Electric mowers should have their power cables checked for any damage, such as fraying or holes. If your mower cable is damaged, consider getting a replacement to ensure safety. It’s also important to fully untangle the cord before mowing to prevent overheating.

  1. Sharpen the mower blades

Dull blades will result in uneven cuts and may damage your grass. Sharpen the blades if needed, or replace them if they’re cracked, damaged, or too dull to sharpen. New blades will improve the performance of your mower.

  1. Clean the lawnmower

Regularly cleaning your lawnmower will extend its lifespan. Remember to remove any grass build-up from vents to keep the motor well ventilated and prevent overheating. Clean the blades and their surroundings to allow for smooth spinning. Consider using a cleaning kit with a mulch barrier to prevent future grass build-up.

Once your lawnmower is prepared, you can confidently tackle your lawn! To maintain a healthy lawn throughout spring and summer, we recommend mowing regularly when the grass is reasonably dry.

If you would like your lawnmower or ride-on-mower or tractor serviced our team of expert mechanics will be delighted to help. Call us on 01403 283814 and we can arrange a day and time that best suits you.