As the cooler months settle in, it's time to remember that while summer bodies may be made in winter, summer lawns are too. If you dream of sunlit mornings with coffee on a lush lawn or balmy sunset drinks with friends on soft, green grass, now is the time to prepare your lawn for the upcoming season.
Here are some essential steps you can take this weekend to ensure your lawn is thick, soft, and lush come spring.
Clean Up
During the short, cold days of winter, it can be challenging to find the motivation to clean up your yard. However, removing sticks and leaves from your lawn is crucial. Debris can prevent your grass from getting the sunlight and airflow it needs to thrive. Use a blower or rake to tidy up the grass. Plus, spending some time outside can help you get some much-needed vitamin D during the winter months.
Mow with Care
While you're outside, you might notice that your lawn needs a trim. It's important to continue mowing during the winter, but be sure to keep the grass length a bit longer by raising the mower blades. Grass grows more slowly in winter, and cutting it too short can scalp the lawn, leaving it vulnerable when it doesn't have enough sunlight to recover quickly.
Look Out for Weeds
With slower grass growth in winter, weeds can become more prominent. These unwelcome invaders can take advantage of the slowed growth of your lawn. Using products like Oxa-Fert can help prevent weeds from taking hold. Our lawn care expert highly recommends an oxa fert application . For small outbreaks, spot removal is the most effective method. Click HERE to check out our lawn care page for more products to help control weeds during winter.
Aerate and Fertilize
After cleaning and mowing, consider aerating your lawn. During the cooler months its is recommended that a solid tine aerator such a a pitchfork is used as this will recover faster than a hollow tine aerator. Winter can cause soil compaction, especially in areas with heavy foot or pet traffic. Aerating the lawn helps create space for air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Following aeration, apply a fertilizer to nourish your lawn. Liquid fertilizers like Lawn Kelper or Exceed are particularly effective in winter, as they are more readily absorbed by the grass.
As you enjoy a hot cocoa and watch your breath float in the crisp winter air, take a moment to appreciate the effort you're putting into your lawn. While others may be hibernating, you're laying the foundation for a beautiful summer oasis. Soon, the sun will shine, and your grass will become a lush carpet, perfect for barefoot strolls and impromptu picnics.
Remember, a stunning summer lawn is not an accident; it is the result of your dedicated winter labor. Embrace the cold, channel your inner lawn artist, and prepare to impress your neighbors with the transformation.
