Winter Care for Artificial Grass: Keep Your Lawn Looking Great All Year

When the temperature drops, your artificial grass, a durable synthetic lawn designed to mimic natural turf without the need for watering or mowing. Also known as synthetic turf, it’s built to handle UK winters—but it still needs basic care to stay looking its best. Unlike real grass, it won’t turn brown or die, but snow, leaves, and moisture can hide its true condition if you ignore it.

One of the biggest risks in winter is moss, a slimy, green growth that thrives in damp, shaded areas and can cling to synthetic fibres. It doesn’t kill your lawn, but it makes it look old and neglected. You’ll also find debris, like fallen leaves and twigs, that trap moisture and block sunlight, creating the perfect spot for mould to grow. And while you might think snow is harmless, heavy piles can flatten the fibres and make them stiff or brittle over time. The good news? None of this is hard to fix.

You don’t need special tools. A stiff broom or a leaf blower works fine to clear leaves and light snow. Never use metal shovels or sharp tools—they can cut the fibres. For stubborn ice, let it melt naturally. Salt can damage the backing over time, so skip rock salt. If your lawn feels soggy or smells musty, a quick rinse with a garden hose on a mild day helps flush out dirt and salts. Brushing the fibres upright every few weeks keeps them looking full and prevents matting.

Winter care isn’t about big projects. It’s about small, regular checks. Look for pooling water after rain. Clear gutters and downspouts so runoff doesn’t flood your lawn. Keep pets from digging in the same spots—frozen ground makes it easier for claws to tear the backing. And if you’ve got children playing outside, make sure they’re not dragging heavy toys across the grass when it’s icy.

By the time spring rolls around, you’ll want your lawn to bounce back instantly. That’s why winter maintenance matters. It’s not about perfection—it’s about consistency. A quick sweep every week, a quick brush after snow, and a rinse when things get muddy are all you need. Skip the fancy chemicals. Skip the pressure washers. Your artificial grass was made to last. You just have to help it out when the weather turns.

Below, you’ll find real tips from UK gardeners who’ve been there—how to remove ice without damage, what products actually work, and which habits make the biggest difference. No fluff. Just what works when the ground’s frozen and the days are short.