Winterizing Your Lawn: A Step-by-Step Guide

October 24, 2024

1. Fertilize:

It may seem counterintuitive, but late fall is an ideal time to fertilize your lawn. Applying a slow-release fertilizer helps nourish the grass roots over the winter months. Fertilizing now will store nutrients that the grass can use for early spring growth. Make sure to choose a fertilizer high in potassium, which boosts the grass’s resistance to cold stress.

2. Aerate:

Aerating your lawn before winter allows water, air, and nutrients to reach deep into the soil, nurturing healthier roots. By breaking up compacted soil and improving drainage, you’re helping your grass breathe and absorb nutrients more effectively. Renting an aerator is an option, but hiring a professional might bring peace of mind if you feel uncertain. Aeration will prime your lawn for the colder months.

3. Apply Mulch:

Consider mulching leaves directly into your lawn instead of raking and bagging them. Mulch holds in heat and helps keep the soil moist, providing your lawn the care it needs to endure the winter. Especially in colder climates, mulching can help shield your lawn’s roots from harsh, freezing temperatures.

Don’t forget Watering!

Watering your lawn into late fall is essential to keep the soil moist as your grass prepares for dormancy. Even though cooler temperatures and shorter days reduce evaporation, grass roots still need water to store energy for winter. Aim to water deeply but less frequently, giving about an inch of water per week until the ground freezes. Watering throughout the fall hydrates your lawn, helping it remain resilient through winter and promoting a quicker green-up in spring.