Story: Autumn Lawns
Episode: 5
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Air Date: 5 April 2025

Addressing extreme weather challenges, from saturated lawns in the north to dry soil in the south, using gypsum, wetting agents, and soil treatments will help restore and maintain a healthy, resilient lawn this autumn.

• For lawns that are waterlogged, the key is to allow the ground to dry out. Adding gypsum treatment helps improve soil structure, allowing better drainage and preventing further waterlogging. It’s beneficial to treat the soil now to prepare for future rainy months.
• In areas with lasting dryness, especially in southern states, the soil can become extremely dry despite occasional rains. The solution is to use a wetting agent that penetrates deep into the soil, ensuring water reaches the roots for even growth and recovery.
• Sandy soils, especially on the northern beaches of Sydney, Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, or Perth’s sandplain, can be tough to manage. Adding clay (Kaolin), trace elements, and silt can transform sandy soils into excellent garden and lawn bases, improving water retention and nutrient availability.
• Using liquid wetting agents during autumn helps water penetrate deep into the soil, which is critical for lawn recovery. The seaweed extract in these products aids in stress recovery, activating dormant minerals and ensuring better absorption of water by the grass roots.
• Even when the soil below the lawn is dry, lawns can still appear healthy due to their resilience. However, if patches begin to form, it’s time to act quickly. Apply a wetting agent now to promote even water penetration and encourage healthy lawn growth.
• Autumn is a crucial time for lawn care. Applying liquid wetting agents with seaweed extract during this period helps activate nutrients and improve water retention, ensuring your lawn recovers from stress and thrives for the upcoming season.