Looking forward to a reprieve from Lawn Care?

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to get your lawn into tip top condition for the spring season.
Different areas call for different winter care, here are some helpful tips for getting your lawn ready for the winter season.

Before winter comes, it is important to get your lawn ready for the spring before it stops growing. Taking the time now will give you a healthy, beautiful lawn when warmer temps roll around.

Cutting

Cut your lawn until the grass stops growing altogether. In some drier areas, it is recommended to scalp your lawn. But most areas should be cut to about 3″.

Aeration

Aerate your lawn at least every few years to help bring nutrients into the soil and allow the roots of your grass to grow deeper. Aeration can be done mechanically or manually with a lawn aerator. This makes holes in your lawn that allow water and air into the soil to reach the root system. It also softens the soil and reduces compaction.

Pre-Seeding

Rake your clippings and any leaves that have fallen onto your lawn to make the area clean and ready for seeding.
Before seeding, you might want to test the pH of your soil. Easy to use home test kits are available at your local lawn and garden store. The pH should be above 6.0. If it is lower, add lime to your soil. If it is too high, 7.1 or higher, try adding fertilizer or water your lawn to help flush out any basic salts.

Seeding

Now that you have prepared your lawn, it is time for seeding. You will want to over-seed your lawn to ensure coverage and leave a layer for the birds and animals. Most areas will benefit from rye seed or Kentucky Bluegrass.
To over-seed, use a hand or push spreader to cover your lawn with one to one and a half pounds of seed per 100 square feet. You will want to cover the area consistently so use a pattern such as a checkerboard (up and down then side to side). Make your final passes diagonal and add that extra layer for the birds.

Covering

After seeding and depending on your area, you may want to cover the seed to keep the seeds moist. In colder areas, the seed will remain dormant under a layer of snow so you will not have to cover. In drier areas or in climates where there is no snow, you will want to apply mulch or compost over the seeds.

Watering

Now is the time to water, water, water. This is the most important step and will help the seeds grow. Over-watering or night watering can introduce fungus and nullify your hard work. Water your lawn three times a day, seven minutes at a time for the first week after seeding. This will help keep the seeds moist and the soil damp.

Put away the tools and lawn mower, sit back and relax- you have worked hard to enjoy your holiday season. You can rest assured that your lawn with come back to life in the spring looking healthy and green.