As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to fall, it’s easy to let lawn care slip off the to-do list. However, fall is one of the most crucial times for lawn maintenance if you want to ensure a lush, green yard come spring. Taking a few simple steps now can help your grass thrive after the winter months and keep your landscape looking its best year-round.
Here’s your guide to essential fall lawn care:
1. Keep Up with Mowing
Even though growth slows down in fall, you should continue mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Gradually reduce the mowing height to about 2 to 2.5 inches. Cutting it too short can expose the roots to harsh conditions, but letting it grow too long invites pests and diseases.
2. Rake Those Leaves
Leaving leaves on your lawn can suffocate your grass, especially as they get wet and mat down. Regularly raking or using a leaf blower prevents mold growth and allows your lawn to receive sunlight and air. Plus, you can repurpose those leaves as mulch for garden beds!
3. Aerate the Soil
Fall is the ideal time to aerate your lawn because it helps relieve soil compaction and allows water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the grass roots more easily. This step is particularly important for lawns that get heavy foot traffic or have clay-heavy soil. Aeration gives your lawn the boost it needs to thrive.
4. Fertilize for Future Growth
Applying a fall fertilizer is one of the most effective ways to help your grass store nutrients for the winter. Look for a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will support healthy root growth and improve the lawn’s resilience through the cold months.
5. Overseed Bare Spots
If you notice bare or thinning patches, fall is the perfect time to overseed. The cool weather and occasional rain provide ideal growing conditions for new grass to take root. Overseeding helps ensure a fuller, thicker lawn by spring.
6. Control Weeds Before Winter
Weeds may seem less active in the fall, but now is actually the best time to tackle them. Applying a pre-emergent weed killer will help prevent those pesky weeds from sprouting in the spring. Focus on common fall invaders like dandelions, clover, and chickweed.
7. Water Wisely
While you may not need to water as frequently in fall, your lawn still needs hydration—especially after aerating or fertilizing. Ensure your lawn gets about an inch of water per week until the ground freezes. This will help your grass stay healthy and hydrated before it goes dormant.
By following these essential fall lawn care tips, you’re setting your yard up for success. A little extra effort in the fall will go a long way, ensuring a vibrant, green lawn come spring. If you need help with any of these tasks or want a professional evaluation of your lawn’s needs, we’re here to assist!
Contact us today to schedule your fall lawn care services.
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