Australians love their backyards. Whether it’s for a kick of the footy, a summer barbeque with friends or a night out under the stars, nothing tops it off like a luscious green lawn.

When you are equipped with the knowledge on how to maintain your lawn with ease, you’ll be well on the way to having a garden envied by your neighbours.

Here are some great tips to help you get the perfect lawn:

1) Don’t let weeds develop

Whether you grew your lawn from seeds, purchased turf from a local garden supplier or adopted a patch of turf when you moved into your home, your garden will unfortunately not be immune from the humble weed. They seem to sprout out of nowhere and can spread overnight.

The trick is to ensure you tackle weeds as soon as they appear.

There are a number of products available on the market including sprays, however make sure you purchase an appropriate weed killer depending on the turf you have and one that will address the specific weeds that have sprouted. The longer you leave it, the more they will take over and no one likes a foot full of prickly weeds.

2) Don’t overlook the fertiliser

Fertilising your lawn regularly will ensure that it has the best chance of surviving Australia’s harsh weather conditions.

When your lawn has the perfect amount of essential nutrients, it has a better chance of dealing with the heat of summer, long periods of drought and even unfortunate disease.

Fertilising your lawn is the best way to give it a boost of essential nutrients. Choose from organic or non-organic fertiliers and keep it up at least twice a year.

Don’t overlook the fertiliser, your lawn needs it.

• Creating a DIY vertical garden from household items
• Raised tank garden bed

3) Aeration is essential

Overtime our luscious green lawn becomes compacted under foot and as a result water and nutrients struggle to penetrate into the root system. Use a pitchfork, a pair of spikey-soled shoes or an aeration machine to systematically poke small holes into the turf and give it a chance to breathe.

4) Keep your turf watered

Your grass will love a regular drink so make sure you water it first thing in the morning, or after the sun has gone down, particularly in summer so that it does not lose water through evaporation. Depending on water restrictions in your area, you may be able to use a sprinkler or an automated watering system to assist. Be careful not to overwater though as you can weaken the leaves and cause damage to the roots.

5) Mow your lawn

Depending on the variety of turf in your backyard, there may be a need to mow it more often than not.

Don’t let the grass get too long as it is much easier to care for it when you mow it regularly.

Long leaves can rip and potentially leave patches and you’ll end up doing more damage than good.

Your turf maintenance plan need not be locked in stone however by following some rough guidelines you’ll be able to keep your lawn in tip top condition and allow your friends and family to enjoy it even more.

Do you have any tips to share? Please leave your suggestions in the comments below.

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