As temperatures begin to rise, timing is crucial when it comes to and . According to Jamie Shipley, managing director of , mid-March marks the return of mowing season, but doing it too often could have serious consequences for your lawn's health.

"As temperatures rise in mid-March, you may notice your grass growing faster," Jamie explained. "You can begin mowing again but cut lightly and keep the grass fairly long to retain moisture during the warmer months."

A gradual approach is key. Jamie recommends mowing only every two weeks in March and April, increasing to once a week by May. Rushing into frequent mowing too early could weaken your lawn, making it more vulnerable to stress.

One of the biggest mistakes gardeners can make is mowing when frost is still present. "Ensure that temperatures are mild enough before mowing," Jamie warned. "Mowing with any signs of frost on your lawn could cause unnecessary damage when your grass is most vulnerable."

Mowing frozen grass can break or tear blades, preventing proper regrowth and leading to long-term thinning or bare patches. Waiting for consistently mild conditions is essential for a strong and healthy lawn.

Beyond mowing, gardeners should also be mindful of common springtime pests and diseases.

"Pests can kill new seedlings, destroy new growth in plants, and create holes in delicate leaves," Jamie cautioned.

Box hedging plants, in particular, are at risk of box blight, a fungal disease that causes leaves to turn brown and eventually fall off. "Regular inspection of hedging plants is crucial to catch early signs of disease or pest damage," Jamie advised.

Preventative measures, such as good air circulation and proper plant care, can help mitigate risks.

With the right timing and care, gardeners can ensure their lawns and plants thrive throughout the warmer months.

Avoiding the mistake of mowing too soon or during frost, along with being proactive against pests and diseases, will set the foundation for a lush and healthy garden all season long.