Fall is a great time to give your lawn a little TLC before the winter months. By following these tips, you can help your lawn stay healthy and green all season long.
1. Mow your lawn regularly. Continue mowing your lawn throughout the fall, but at a slightly higher height than you would in the summer. This will help the grass stay healthy and protect it from winter
Mowing the lawn in the fall
2. Aerate your lawn. Aeration helps to improve the drainage of your lawn and allows air and water to reach the roots. This is especially important if your lawn is compacted.
Aerating lawn
3. Fertilize your lawn. Fertilizing your lawn in the fall will help it store nutrients for the winter. Choose a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus.
Fertilizing lawn in the fall
- Rake up leaves. As the leaves start to fall, rake them up and dispose of them properly. Leaving leaves on your lawn can smother the grass and create a breeding ground for pests and diseases.
Raking up leaves in the fall
- Repair any damage. If you have any bare spots in your lawn, repair them by overseeding or sodding. This will help to fill in the gaps and make your lawn look its best.
Repairing bare spots in the lawn
- Â Water your lawn as needed. Fall is typically a time of cooler weather, so you may not need to water your lawn as often as you did in the summer. However, if there is a drought, be sure to water your lawn deeply and regularly.
Watering lawn in the fall
- Be proactive about pests and diseases. Fall is a time when pests and diseases can become a problem. Be on the lookout for signs of problems, such as brown patches or wilting leaves. If you see any problems, treat them immediately.
Pests and diseases on lawn in the fall
Here are some additional tips for caring for your lawn during fall:
- Avoid using herbicides and pesticides during the fall, as these can harm beneficial insects and microorganisms.
- If you have to use herbicides or pesticides, be sure to follow the directions carefully.
- Don’t overseed your lawn too late in the fall, as the new grass may not have time to establish itself before winter.
- If you live in an area with a lot of snow, consider overseeding your lawn with a winter-hardy grass blend.