Lawn Maintenance Tips For Winter

As the cooler months roll in across South East Queensland, it’s easy to think your lawn doesn’t need much attention. After all, the grass slows down, growth stalls and everything seems a little quieter in the garden.

But winter lawn care is just as important as your summer routine — especially if you want a lush, healthy lawn come spring.

Here are our top lawn maintenance tips to keep your turf in great shape throughout the winter season.

1. Keep It Clean

During winter, fallen leaves, twigs, and debris can smother your grass and lead to fungal issues. It’s important to regularly clear your lawn of anything that blocks sunlight or traps moisture. A simple rake or blower every week or two can make a big difference.

Tip: Avoid leaving objects like furniture or sports gear on your lawn for extended periods — they’ll compact the soil and cause yellowing patches.

3. Watch For Weeds

Weeds love winter. With your grass growing slowly, weeds often take advantage of the reduced competition and establish themselves quickly. Regularly inspect your lawn and remove any weeds by hand or with spot treatments.

Common winter lawn weeds in Queensland include:

• Bindi
  
• Clover
  
• Winter grass
  
• Oxalis
  
  

Tip: Apply a selective herbicide if necessary, but be sure to follow the instructions and choose one that’s safe for your grass type.

4. Limit Foot Traffic

When grass is dormant or growing slowly, it’s more vulnerable to damage. Try to avoid excessive walking, parking, or heavy use on your lawn during the colder months — especially after rain, when the ground is soft.

Compacted soil and worn patches are harder to repair in winter and can affect growth come spring.

5. Fertilise Sparingly

Winter isn’t the time for heavy fertilising, but your lawn may benefit from a light application of a slow-release fertiliser early in the season — especially if it didn’t receive a proper autumn feed.

Look for a fertiliser with higher potassium content to improve winter hardiness and disease resistance.

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers during winter, as they can promote weak growth that’s more susceptible to frost and stress.

6. Improve Drainage

Excess water and poor drainage can create soggy patches, fungal problems, and root rot in winter. If you notice water pooling on your lawn after rain, it might be time to:

• Aerate the lawn to improve soil structure.
  
• Top dress low spots with sandy loam.
  
• Check for blocked drains or gutters directing water onto the turf.
  
  

Good drainage is key to a healthy lawn year-round.

7. Water Only When Needed

In most cases, winter rainfall in South East Queensland is enough to sustain your lawn. But if there’s an extended dry spell, your grass may still need a light watering every couple of weeks — especially during windy periods.

Water early in the morning to reduce the risk of fungal issues and allow time for evaporation during the day.

Note: Overwatering in winter can do more harm than good, so always check soil moisture before turning on the tap.

8. Control Pests and Disease

While pest activity slows in winter, issues like lawn grubs, armyworms, and fungal diseases can still crop up. Keep an eye out for:

• Brown patches
  
• Thinning grass
  
• Soft or slimy spots
  
• Discolouration or mould
  
  

If you suspect pests or disease, treat early with appropriate lawn care products or speak to a professional lawn technician for advice.

9. Aerate If Needed

If your lawn gets heavy use or sits on clay soil, winter is a good time to aerate. Aeration helps relieve compaction, encourages deeper root growth, and improves water penetration.

Use a garden fork or mechanical aerator to punch holes across the lawn — especially in high-traffic or waterlogged areas.

10. Plan For Spring

While winter lawn care is about maintenance, it’s also the perfect time to plan ahead. Consider:

• Booking a professional lawn service for a spring renovation.
  
• Checking the condition of your mower and tools.
  
• Preparing a plan for weed and pest control before peak growing season.
  
  

A little forward thinking now can save you time and money down the track.

Need Help With Winter Lawn Care?

At Order of the Lawn, we keep Brisbane lawns looking lush all year long. Whether you need a winter tidy-up, weed control or expert advice, our local team is here to help.