As the weather gets colder and the days become shorter, it’s important to start thinking about how to prepare your lawn for winter. With a little bit of planning and some elbow grease, you can make sure your lawn stays healthy and green all season long.
Professional lawn care companies, like Holmes Lawn & Pest in Utah, can be contacted for information more specific to your area. In general, here’s what you need to do:
Mowing
As the grass stops growing as quickly in the cooler months, you can start mowing less frequently. However, it’s still important to maintain a consistent mowing schedule so that your lawn doesn’t become overgrown. When you do mow, make sure to set the blade higher than you would in the summer. This will help protect the grass from damage as it enters its dormant state.
Fertilization
Fertilizing in the fall helps your lawn recover from the stress of summer and prepare for winter. Look for a fertilizer that contains slow-release nutrients so that your lawn can absorb them over time. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually around 1 pound per 1,000 square feet.
Aeration
Aerating your lawn in the fall helps improve drainage and reduce compaction. This is especially important if your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic. To aerate, use a garden fork or core aerator to punch holes in the soil at regular intervals. If you have a small lawn, you can do this by hand. For a larger lawn, you may need to rent an aerator from a garden center or hardware store.
Seeding
Seeding is important for two reasons: first, it helps fill in any bare spots; and second, it gives your lawn a head start on growth in the spring. When selecting seed, look for a variety that’s adapted to your region and suits your needs (e.g., drought tolerance, shade tolerance). Once you’ve chosen a seed, spread it evenly over your lawn at the rate recommended by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can make sure your lawn is healthy and resilient all winter long. Taking care of your lawn now will pay off come springtime when everyone else is scrambling to get their yards in shape!
