Don’t Panic! It’s Not Too Late: Middle Of Winter Lawn Care Tips
Fall may have flown by, and you might be kicking yourself for neglecting your lawn prep. While ideal lawn preparation takes place in autumn, there are still steps you can take to maximize your lawn’s winter survival and spring comeback. So, put on your boots, jackets, gloves, and grab this guide to a winter lawn revival:
- Should I Still Water My Lawn During The Winter? Though it might seem counterintuitive, watering during dry spells is essential for winter survival. Aim for deep, infrequent waterings to encourage roots to grow deeper for moisture access.
- Would Raking Fallen Leaves Help? Fallen leaves can smother your grass, blocking light and airflow. Regularly rake them up, adding them to your compost pile or mulch for a sustainable approach. Don’t worry about late leaf drop – even those last stragglers need removal.
- Should I Still Fertilize My Lawn During The Winter? Even though growth slows in winter, early winter fertilization strengthens your lawn’s root system for spring growth. Opt-in for a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote root development without encouraging unwanted winter grass growth. Unfortunately, we don’t offer this as a service since it is past our schedule of the year.
- Should I Mow My Lawn During The Winter? Contrary to popular belief, fall mowing isn’t about scalping your lawn! Keep blades at a slightly higher setting (3-4 inches) to help insulate the crown of the grass against harsh winter weather.
- Can I still Aerate My Lawn During The Winter? If the ground hasn’t frozen yet, consider aeration. This breaks up compacted soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots, crucial for winter resilience. Although this isn’t a service Schendel provides during winter this is something beneficial for you DIYers.
Curb Appeal Counts: Don’t neglect winter’s visual impact. Maintain borders, remove dead branches, and consider planting winter-blooming shrubs like witch hazel or viburnum for some festive color.
Remember, even a late start is better than no start at all. By following these tips and giving your lawn some TLC, you can ensure it emerges from winter stronger and more beautiful than ever.
So, put down the guilt, pick up your rake, and embrace the power of late-season lawn care!
