Maintaining your lawn can feel like a never-ending task, especially with Perth’s dry summers and sandy soils. But with the right knowledge and a bit of routine care, you can achieve a lush, green lawn that not only looks amazing but also enhances the beauty of your outdoor living space.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to maintain your lawn properly throughout the year, covering everything from grass types and watering tips to mowing, fertilising, and pest control. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, this step-by-step approach will help you keep your lawn in peak condition, right alongside your dream patio.
Grass Types & Soil Health
The first step in learning how to properly maintain your lawn is understanding what you’re working with. In Perth, the most common grass types include Couch, Kikuyu, and Buffalo. Each type has specific water, sunlight, and mowing requirements.
Soil health is equally important. Healthy soil provides the nutrients your grass needs to thrive. Test your soil's pH (aim for between 6.0 and 7.0) and check for compacted areas, which can limit root growth. Aerating your lawn at least once a year helps improve soil structure and encourages deep root development.
The Best Watering Practices for a Lush Lawn
Watering is key when it comes to maintaining your lawn, especially in Perth's dry, hot summers. The best practice is to water deeply but infrequently, encouraging roots to grow deeper into the soil. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Aim for around 10mm to 15mm of water per session, 2–3 times per week depending on the season. Be mindful of local water restrictions and invest in a good-quality sprinkler system to distribute water evenly.
Mowing Tips for Healthy & Even Growth
Mowing isn’t just about keeping your yard tidy, it’s a crucial part of how to properly maintain your lawn. Set your mower blades to the correct height for your grass type. Never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow, as cutting too low can stress your lawn and make it susceptible to weeds and disease.
Keep your mower blades sharp and vary your mowing pattern to avoid soil compaction and encourage upright growth.
Fertilising & Feeding Your Lawn
Fertilising provides essential nutrients that might be missing from your soil. For Perth lawns, a balanced slow-release fertiliser applied in early spring, mid-summer, and early autumn works well.
Look for fertilisers with nitrogen (for growth), phosphorus (for root strength), and potassium (for overall health). Liquid seaweed and organic soil conditioners can also boost microbial activity and improve soil health.
Weed & Pest Control
Weeds compete with your grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilising will naturally crowd out many weeds. For tougher invaders, spot-treat with a selective herbicide suited for your grass type.
Pests like beetles and lawn grubs can also wreak havoc. Keep an eye out for brown patches or increased bird activity, both signs of infestation. Treat as soon as possible with the right pesticide or consider beneficial nematodes for an organic option.
Managing Shade & Sun Exposure
Different lawn types respond differently to light. Buffalo grass is more shade-tolerant, while Couch thrives in full sun. Observe which areas of your lawn receive the most light and choose grass varieties (or maintenance techniques) accordingly. In shaded zones, prune overhanging branches or consider alternative ground covers to maintain a consistent look.
Lawn Top Dressing for Level and Growth
Top dressing involves spreading a thin layer of soil or sand over your lawn to even out surface dips, improve drainage, and boost soil nutrients. The best time to top dress is in early spring or after aeration. Use a mix that matches your existing soil, and don’t smother the grass, the blades should still be visible.
Seasonal Lawn Care Tips
Keeping your lawn healthy year-round means adjusting your care routine with the seasons. From summer heat to winter chill, each time of year brings its own challenges and opportunities. Here’s how to give your lawn the right care at the right time, so it stays lush and green no matter the season.
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Spring: Aerate your lawn, apply fertiliser, and start regular watering.
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Summer: Water deeply, mow high, and watch for pests.
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Autumn: Fertilise again and reduce mowing frequency as growth slows.
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Winter: Mow less often, avoid heavy traffic on the lawn, and clear fallen leaves.
Make Your Outdoor Area Shine with Great Aussie Patios
At Great Aussie Patios, we believe that a beautiful lawn and a quality patio go hand in hand. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or relaxing with family, your outdoor space should be both stylish and functional.
Ready to take your backyard to the next level? Contact our friendly Perth-based team today for a free quote on your custom patio design. Let’s create an outdoor area you’ll love, complete with a lush, green lawn as the perfect finishing touch.