How to Prepare Your Lawn for Winter

November 18, 2009

Winter is coming upon us quickly here in Utah and if you haven’t prepared your lawn for winter, here are a few tips on how best to do that so the lawn stays healthy over the winter and greens up nicely in the spring.

Rake your leaves – Your grass roots are still alive throughout the winter and too many leaves piled on top may suffocate and kill your lawn. Also, too many leaves may keep moisture from reaching the roots or may trap too much moisture causing the roots to rot and possibly die.

Fertilize – We are now a little late for this here in Utah, but it is really important for healthy roots in the winter. Late Fall about 1 month before it freezes is a good time to do this. The grass has been using the ground’s nutrients all summer and is now hungry for more. Fertilizing in the fall will encourage lush growth in the spring.

Cut your grass a little shorter – It is important to continue mowing your lawn as long as there is visible growth. Grass should be cut no shorter than 2 inches and no longer than 3 inches. This should be lowered gradually if possible over several weeks lowering the mower blade 1 notch at a time so you do not cause too much stress to the lawn. 2 inches of grass protects the crown and roots of the grass from the sun and elements. If grass is too long it will lay over on itself and retain too much moisture. This can cause fungus and mold.

I hope this helps! I am gearing up for raking my lawn tomorrow, Saturday. It is not my favorite chore. A little work right now will ensure a healthy lawn next spring.