How to prepare your lawn for winter: Essential tools from Cobra

As the cooler months draw in and lawns prepare for their seasonal rest, now is the perfect time to give grassy areas a little extra care. Preparing lawns before winter not only protects them from frost and disease but also ensures they bounce back stronger and greener come spring.

With Cobra’s powerful range of garden machinery, gardeners can make light work of every step – from leaf clearing to the final mow.

Clear the way for a healthy lawn

Over autumn, fallen leaves and garden debris can quickly smother grass and encourage disease. Clearing these early on not only improves airflow and light penetration but also prevents damp patches that promote mould, putting lawns in a better position to enter the winter period. The BV26C Blower / Vac makes this task quick and easy. Powered by a 26cc Cobra 2-stroke engine, this lightweight 5.8kg blower converts easily from blow to vac mode, allowing gardeners to clear and collect debris in one smooth operation.

Its 10:1 mulching ratio means leaves can be finely shredded and reused as compost or soil insulation to help to protect borders through the colder months. Ergonomic controls and a balanced design also make it comfortable to use, even across larger areas – ideal for keeping lawns clear and healthy all season long.

Let the lawn breathe

Compacted soil restricts the movement of air, water and nutrients, leaving grass weak just when it needs to toughen up for winter. For this reason, aerating and scarifying are essential steps in any pre-winter routine. The SA32E Scarifier / Aerator combines both tasks in one robust machine, powered by a 1400W motor.

Its interchangeable cylinders let gardeners switch between a 36-spring tine scarifier to remove moss and thatch, and a 12-blade aerator to relieve compaction and stimulate deeper root growth. Adjustable working depths provide control for different soil types, while the 30L collection bags ensures tidy results. Regular aeration not only keeps lawns resilient through frost but also encourages faster, greener recovery in spring.

Feed for strength and endurance

As growth slows, grass focuses on building strong roots beneath the surface. Feeding in late autumn helps lawns store energy and nutrients that sustain them through winter. For precise, even application, the HS23 Walk Behind Spreader offers a practical solution.

With a 22kg capacity, durable steel frame and 12-inch pneumatic tyres, it’s built for efficient coverage on uneven terrain. Its adjustable feed control allows tailored spreading of fertiliser, seed or de-icer – essential for avoiding patchy application. For larger gardens, the HS26S Spreader increases capacity to 31kg and includes a screen and rain cover to prevent clogs and protect materials in damp conditions. A late-season feed applied evenly across the lawn helps strengthen grass and reduce the risk of winter disease.

The final cut

A final mow before the first frost is essential for keeping lawns neat and resilient, with a cutting height of around 5-7cm helping to protect roots from the cold and reduce stress on the grass.

For smaller gardens, the MX3440V Lawnmower provides the perfect balance of power and convenience. Powered by a 40V Li-ion battery, it delivers up to 35 minutes of quiet, cable-free operation, making it ideal for neat, efficient mowing without the need for petrol or leads. With five adjustable cutting heights (25–75mm) and a lightweight 17kg polymer deck, it offers a precise, even finish and easy handling in tighter spaces.

Larger lawns benefit from the strength and comfort of the LT86HRL Lawn Tractor, a 34-inch hydrostatic-drive model equipped with a 452cc Loncin OHV engine. Its twin-bladed cutting deck and seven-stage height adjustment (25–80mm) deliver consistent results across extensive areas, while the 245-litre collection system ensures fewer stops. The included mulch plug allows nutrient-rich clippings to return to the soil, supporting healthy regrowth come spring.

Once mowing is complete, maintenance is key. Cleaning decks, sharpening blades and charging batteries ensures every machine is ready for the season ahead – keeping lawns and equipment in top condition through the colder months.

To explore the full range of Cobra lawn care tools and machinery, visit www.cobragarden.co.uk.

Ends

Editors notes

The Cobra Garden range is constantly expanding and now consists of over 130 products to cover both domestic and professional requirements. Cobra incorporate a comprehensive range of petrol, electric and cordless lawnmowers, handheld machines and lawncare products.