Note: Exact timing varies slightly by climate (warmer north vs cooler south), but this schedule works as a solid baseline for most lawns in Australia.
Spring (September – November)
This is the growth kick-off season. Lawns wake up from winter dormancy.
- Watering: 1–2 times per week depending on rainfall. Deep soak preferred.
- Fertilisation: Apply a slow-release nitrogen-rich fertiliser in early spring to promote growth and colour.
- Mowing: Resume regular mowing as growth increases. Keep blades higher at first, then gradually lower.
- Dethatching (if needed): Light dethatch/scarify to remove excess thatch and allow sunlight in.
- Aerating: Spike or core-aerate compacted areas, especially after winter rain.
- Top Dressing: Light top dress after dethatching/aeration to even out surface and improve soil.
- Scalping: Perform a light scalp (cutting lawn lower than usual) on warm-season grasses like Kikuyu, Couch, Zoysia if thatch is heavy — helps rejuvenate. Avoid scalping Buffalo or Tall Fescue.
Summer (December – February)
Peak growth season for warm-season grasses. Maintenance is key.
- Watering: 2–3 times per week during heat waves; deep, infrequent watering encourages strong roots.
- Fertilisation: Mid-summer application of slow-release or liquid fertiliser. Consider a liquid kelp or tonic to help stress resistance.
- Mowing: Weekly mowing for Kikuyu, Couch; every 2–3 weeks for Buffalo/Zoysia. Keep blades slightly higher in extreme heat to shade roots.
- Weed Control: Spot spray bindi, clover, broadleaf weeds with selective herbicide.
Autumn (March – May)
The transition season — growth slows, but lawns can be strengthened before winter.
- Watering: Once per week or as needed, depending on rainfall.
- Fertilisation: Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early autumn to maintain colour and encourage root development before winter.
- Mowing: Gradually raise mowing height to prepare for winter dormancy. Frequency slows to every 2–3 weeks.
- Dethatching: Light dethatch/scarify if summer thatch build-up is visible.
- Aerating: Core aeration is ideal in autumn (especially high-traffic lawns).
- Top Dressing: Autumn is another good window for top dressing uneven areas.
Winter (June – August)
Cool-season grasses stay active; warm-season grasses slow or go dormant.
- Watering: Minimal — only during dry spells. Overwatering in winter causes fungal issues.
- Fertilisation: Apply a winter fertiliser (high iron, potassium, low nitrogen) to maintain colour and strengthen roots.
- Mowing: Infrequent — every 3–4 weeks, and never scalp. Keep mowing height higher for insulation.
- Weed Control: Winter weeds (e.g., wintergrass) can be controlled with pre-emergent herbicides or targeted sprays.
- Scalping/Dethatching: ❌ Avoid in winter — grass won’t recover until spring.
Aerating/Top Dressing: Not necessary unless extreme compaction is present.