As the leaves begin their spectacular autumn transformation, it’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of the season. But don’t forget, your lawn needs some attention too! At ProLawns, we know that a healthy lawn going into Winter leads to a lush and healthy spring lawn.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you prepare your yard for the colder months ahead.
Why Fall Lawn Care is Crucial in Minnesota
As temperatures drop and daylight hours decrease, cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue prepare for winter dormancy. This transition period is critical, and proper care now will ensure your lawn’s health and resilience throughout the winter. Think of winterizing your lawn as tucking it in for a long winter’s nap. Minnesota winters are tough – freezing temperatures, snow cover, and harsh winds can all take a toll on your turf. Preparing your lawn in the Fall helps your lawn withstand these conditions by:
Protecting roots: Strong roots are essential for a healthy lawn. Winterizing helps your lawn store nutrients and build a strong root system to survive the winter and thrive in the spring.
Preventing disease: Winterizing helps prevent snow mold and other diseases that can damage your lawn under the snow.
Minimizing winter damage: Proper winterization helps your lawn resist damage from harsh winter conditions.
ProLawns’ Winterizing Checklist:
Rake those leaves! A thick layer of leaves can smother your lawn and prevent sunlight from reaching the grass. Rake them up or mulch them with a mower.
Aerate: Aerating your lawn allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots more easily. This is especially important in compacted soil.
Overseed: Fall is a great time to overseed your lawn. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture create ideal conditions for seed germination.
Fertilize: Fall is the perfect time to give your lawn a nutrient boost before the long winter. Applying a winterizing fertilizer helps your lawn store essential resources for the colder months.
Weed Control: Fall is the best time to get your weeds under control. Ensure your lawn goes into next season with a blank slate!
Mow low: Gradually lower your mowing height for the last few cuts of the season. This helps prevent snow mold and other diseases.
Dont Forget!
Water deeply: Even though it’s getting colder, your lawn still needs water. Water deeply until the ground freezes. This helps your lawn stay hydrated and healthy throughout the winter. Especially this year! Water as much as you can without runoff.
Prefer to hire the Pro’s?
Winterizing your lawn can be a lot of work. If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, ProLawns is here to help! Our team can take care of all your winterizing needs, from aeration and overseeding to fertilization and weed control.
Sign up today, and we will have your lawn winterized within 5 business days!
