The Ultimate Guide to Winter Lawn Care
Winter has officially arrived in Perth, and while your lawn may be slowing down, that doesn’t mean it stops needing care. Western Australia’s unique climate—mild but dry winters, sandy soils, and warm-season grasses like couch and buffalo—means your lawn has its own set of seasonal needs.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the dos and don’ts of winter lawn care in Perth, so you can keep your grass healthy and looking great all season long. Plus, we’ll link you to some of our recommended products and guides to help you get the job done right.
Winter Lawn Care Dos (WA Edition)
Should I raise my mowing height during winter?
Yes—increase your mowing height by a notch or two. Leaving more green leaf helps your lawn make the most of limited winter sunlight and hold onto its colour for longer. It also improves weed resistance, which is especially important in WA where weeds can thrive during wetter months.
2. Is Winter a good time to service my lawn mower?
Absolutely. With slower growth in winter, you won’t be mowing as often—making it a perfect time to get your mower blades sharpened and engine serviced. That way, you’re ready to hit the ground running come spring.
3. Should I remove weeds in winter?
Yes, the sooner the better. WA lawns like buffalo and couch can become overwhelmed by broadleaf and wintergrass weeds if left unchecked. Identify and treat weeds early to prevent them from spreading.
🌱 Use our Weeds in Perth Lawns Guide to identify and treat common Perth lawn weeds.
🔒 For prevention, apply a pre-emergent herbicide like Oxafert or Barricade to stop new weeds from germinating.
4. Can I keep my lawn green with pigment products?
Yes! Perth lawns can lose their vibrant colour during winter, especially in cooler inland areas. A lawn pigment like ColourGuard Plus gives your lawn an instant boost of green, even if it’s gone dormant. It’s safe for all WA lawn types, plus kid- and pet-friendly.
Winter Lawn Care Don’ts (WA Edition)
Can I dethatch or topdress my lawn in winter?
No. These renovation jobs require strong regrowth to recover, and in WA’s cooler months, your lawn doesn’t grow fast enough. Hold off until late spring or early summer when your grass is actively growing again.
📆 Get tips on the best time to renovate in our Seasonal Lawn Maintenance Guide.
2. Should I use granular fertiliser in winter?
Not ideal. Perth lawns slow their nutrient uptake in winter, meaning granular fertilisers are less effective. Instead, use a liquid fertiliser like Exceed, which is absorbed through the leaf and gives your grass a quicker boost.
3. Do I need to water my lawn in winter?
Usually, no. Perth winters often bring just enough rain to keep your lawn hydrated. However, if we’re having a dry spell and your lawn looks curled or crispy, give it a light water early in the day. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues, especially in shaded or poorly draining areas.
Perth winters may be mild, but your lawn still needs some TLC. With the right approach and a few key products from Lawn Doctor, you can keep your grass healthy now—and set it up for a lush comeback in spring.