Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can neglect your lawn. Here are 12 winter lawn care tips to make sure your grass looks it’s best when the sun comes out again.
During the winter months, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to protect their lawns from weather damage which can diminish its appearance and health for the following growing season.
By taking a few simple steps before winter sets in, you will be able to ensure your yard looks its best when spring rolls around.
Our Top Winter Lawn Care Tips
What's Inside:
When it comes to preparing and caring for your yard during the coldest season of the year, much of what you do will depend on where you live.
While the northern territories are covered in snow, the southern states barely dip below 40 degrees.
You will need to customize your winter lawn care plan for your region and the type of grass you have. However there are some general tips that will help your lawn recover quickly from the harsh winter weather no matter where you live.
This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. We only include brands we use and trust. See the full disclosure in the privacy policy.
1) Leave Some Length
Don’t cut your winter lawn too short. If the grass is shorter than normal it won’t be able to trap snow and can get damaged easier from equipment like shovels or salt for ice removal.
2) Aerate
Begin winter lawn care by aerating your grass to allow water and fertilizer to reach the roots more easily.
3) Fertilize
Fertilizing your winter lawn during the long, dark days will give it a boost of nutrients that will show results by the time winter is over. It’s also an easy process that doesn’t take too much work!
During winter, you should still use a slow-release winterizer fertilizer to feed your grass during its most vulnerable season of year. It provides nutrients that are easily absorbed into the roots at this point in time which ensures growth when spring comes around again.
4) Don’t Mow When It’s Wet
Mowing wet grass is a big winter lawn killer, so make sure it’s dry before you mow it again. If you have to mow damp grass, wait until later in the day when temperatures are warmer.
5) Topdress Your Lawn
Some homeowners give their lawns a topdressing of sand or compost to help improve drainage from rain and snowmelt. It will also add some additional insulation from the cold winter weather.
6) Protect Your Mower
If you live in a region with temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, keep your mower covered up when it’s not being used.
7) Don’t Scatter Salt on Your Lawn
Salt can kill your grass and it’s best not used at all during winter unless you’re trying to remove ice from walkways or driveways that lead into your home. In that case, be precise with your application and avoid getting any on your turf.
8) Protect Your Plants
Cover your winter plants with mulch, pine needles or even a tarp to keep them safe during the winter. You can also cover smaller trees and shrubs if they are in pots and you bring them inside when cold weather hits.
9) Shovel Early and Often
If you get snow in your area, be sure to avoid piling snow onto your lawn. The weight can cause damage from compaction and makes fungal infection more likely.
10) Look for Signs of Damage or Stress
Once the warm weather starts up again, pay close attention to how your lawn is looking. If you do notice any winter damage make sure to fertilize your grass more during spring so that it can recover more easily.
11) Re-seed Dead Spots with Winter Rye Seed Mixes
For even faster results, try re-seeding dead spots on your winter lawn this season with a cool season grass seed that will germinate quickly once soil temps rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit again.
12) Watch Your Step
Your winter lawn care plan should also include not walking on your grass when possible. Frequent use compacts the soil and can contribute to winter lawn damage.
More Winter Lawn Care Tips:
Final Thoughts on Caring for Your Lawn This Winter
These winter lawn care tips will help your yard look healthier and stronger by the time winter is over.
This extra effort will be well worth it as you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that everything is ready for the warmer weather heading your way so you have a beautiful yard to enjoy all summer long!