THINGS YOU SHOULD DO TO GET YOUR LAWN READY FOR WINTER

As the cold weather approaches, it’s important to take care of your lawn so that it can withstand the tough winter conditions and come back healthy in the spring. By following some simple steps in the fall, you can give your grass the best chance to thrive and look beautiful in the coming months.

 

Decide How to Deal with Leaves

Taking care of your lawn during autumn can be daunting, especially if you have deciduous trees. The fallen leaves that cover your lawn can prevent the grass from getting enough sunlight, and if they get wet, they can make the lawn susceptible to disease. However, there are several easy and beneficial ways to handle fallen leaves.

Instead of raking and disposing of the leaves, you can collect them and use them for composting. Not only will this save you time and energy, but it will also provide nutrient-rich organic matter for your garden. Alternatively, you can use a mulching mower to chop the leaves into small pieces and leave them on the ground. This will enrich the soil with valuable nutrients.

Whatever method you choose, make sure to do it when the leaves and ground are dry. This will make the task easier and more effective. By taking these simple steps, you can improve the health of your lawn and garden while also reducing your workload.

 

Give Your Grass the Right Amount of Water

During the fall season, your lawn’s water requirements change as it enters a dormant phase. Hence, it’s essential to adjust your watering schedule accordingly to avoid overwatering and conserve water.

 

Prevent Weeds

To ensure a weed-free lawn, apply a pre-emergent herbicide during autumn. This will prevent weeds from taking root and spreading throughout your lawn during the winter months. By taking action now, you can enjoy a healthy and lush lawn come springtime.

 

Fill in Bare Spots

If you want to improve the appearance of your yard, consider spreading seed in areas where the grass is sparse or there are bare spots during the fall season. Ensure that you provide enough water to the lawn after seeding so that it can become established and develop strong roots before winter arrives. This simple step can help you achieve a healthier and more vibrant-looking lawn.

 

Aerate

Compacted soil can hinder the growth of grass by preventing water, air and nutrients from reaching the roots. To tackle this issue, aerating the lawn can be a helpful solution. By creating holes in the ground, you can improve the soil structure and encourage healthy grass growth.

For those with cool-season grass, the best time to aerate the lawn is early fall, followed by fertilization. If you don’t have an aerator attachment for your lawn mower, you can easily rent one to get the job done efficiently.

 

Fertilize

Applying fertilizer in the autumn is a helpful practice for those with cool-season grass. This will prompt the grass to store essential nutrients in its roots, which will aid in its survival throughout the winter months. Once spring arrives, the lawn will flourish and exhibit a vibrant green hue as a result of this wise decision to fertilize in the fall.

 

Cut the Grass Short Before Winter

As autumn approaches, it’s important to keep mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Gradually lower the mower’s setting each time you mow so that the grass is trimmed a little shorter than before. This will help prevent snow mould and enhance air circulation which prevents excess moisture from accumulating. By following this simple routine, you’ll ensure that your lawn stays healthy and green throughout the fall season.

 

Consult a Local Expert

For the best lawn care, it’s important to keep in mind that weather patterns and grass species vary depending on the region. If you ever need any guidance or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local extension office or a professional landscaper in your area. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you make informed decisions for your lawn.