As autumn approaches, it's important to care for your lawn in preparation for winter. By taking steps now, you can ensure your grass stays green and healthy next year. Here are some tips for winter lawn maintenance:
1. Clean Up Debris
During fall, leaves and plant debris accumulate. It's crucial to remove fallen leaves and other debris from your lawn, especially those showing signs of disease. Accumulated debris can harm your lawn's health and promote disease.
2. Mow the Grass
Keep your grass at a height of about 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches). Cutting it too short can make it vulnerable to winter cold, while leaving it too long may result in damage from snow or frost. Ensure the last mow of the season is at the appropriate height.
3. Aerate the Soil
Healthy grass needs well-aerated soil. Compacted soil makes it difficult for grass roots to grow and for water and nutrients to be absorbed. Aerating in the fall can improve soil aeration and support healthy growth.
4. Apply Winter Fertilizer
Before winter sets in, it's important to provide your lawn with necessary nutrients. Apply your final fertilizer when the grass growth has slowed and it is entering dormancy. This is typically done about a week after the last mow, around mid-November. Winter fertilizer helps promote root growth and supports quick recovery in spring.
5. Add Compost if Needed
If your lawn appears to need extra nutrients, consider adding a thin layer of compost. Applying compost after aeration can provide additional nourishment to the roots.
By following these fall lawn care tips, you can help your grass thrive through winter and enjoy a vibrant green lawn in spring!
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