Yep! We all know it – winter is just around the corner. It is a time when your lawn takes a break. However, this doesn’t mean that you can completely neglect it! In fact, there are some essential lawn care tasks that you need to do in order to protect your lawn during the winter months and keep it resilient, no matter how ugly things can get, especially with the fluctuating elements in Lincoln, Nebraska.
In this blog post, we will discuss seven of the most important things you need to know about taking absolute care of your lawn before and during the winter months. Sit tight and keep on scrolling to find out more about our winter lawn care essentials!
Essential #1. Do a timely aerating process.
Aeration is one of the most important lawn care activities, and it is crucial that you do it before the winter season hits. This process involves perforating the soil with small holes so that water, air, and nutrients can reach the roots of your grass more easily.
There are two main benefits to aerating your lawn. First, it helps reduce compaction and thatch build-up. Second, it gives your lawn a much-needed boost of oxygen which is essential for the growth and health of your grass.
If you want to ensure that your lawn stays in tip-top shape during the winter, make sure to aerate it before the cold weather sets in! If you’re not sure how to do this, you can always ask for help from the experts at Heroes Lawn Care in Lincoln, NE.
Essential #2. Mow wisely (at the right height and way).
Did you know that the height of your grass has a lot to do with its ability to withstand the winter? It’s true! If you want your lawn to be strong and resilient against the cold, make sure to mow it at the right height as a part of your winter lawn care routine.
For most types of grass, the ideal height is between 2.5 and 3.5 inches. However, you should always check the specific recommendations for the type of grass you have. Some types of grass need to be mowed a bit shorter (around 2 inches), while others can be mowed a bit taller (up to 4 inches).
In addition to mowing at the right height, it is also important to make sure that you mow in the right direction. Mowing in the same direction every time can lead to compaction and lawn scalping (when too much grass is cut off). To avoid these problems, make sure to change up your mowing pattern every few weeks.
Essential #3. Manage the snow and ice accumulation properly.
Snow and ice can be tough on your lawn — there’s no denying that. But with the right winter lawn care routine, you can minimize the damage and keep your grass healthy and strong.
One of the most important things you can do is to remove snow and ice as soon as possible. This will prevent the grass underneath from getting smothered and stressed out. Use a snow shovel or snow blower to clear the area, being careful not to damage the grass in the process.
If you live in an area where ice is a problem, you can also use salt or sand to melt the ice and make it easier to remove. Just be sure to use the proper products when doing so. You can learn more about salting products from the proper lawn care professionals in your area.
Essential #4. Salting keeps ice at bay, but it can cause damage, too!
While salt can help you melt the ice on your lawn and make it easier to remove, it can also cause damage to the grass if used in excess. That’s why it’s important to use the right products and apply them properly.
Essential #5. Feed your lawn before the winter sets in.
Fertilizing your lawn before winter is a great way to give it a boost of nutrients that will help it survive the winter months. Look for a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium, as these two nutrients are essential for grass health.
You should also consider using a slow-release fertilizer, as this will help the nutrients stay in the soil longer and be available to the grass when it needs them most. Apply the fertilizer according to the instructions on the package, and make sure to water it well so that the roots can take up the nutrients.
Essential #6. Protect your lawn from winter kill!
Winter kill is a common problem that can affect even the healthiest of lawns. It happens when the grass is exposed to extremely cold temperatures for an extended period of time, which can cause the grass to die.
To protect your lawn from winter kill, make sure to include in your winter lawn care routine a good winter fertilizer treatment. This will help to fortify the grass and make it more resistant to the cold. You should also consider using a soil conditioner or mulch, as this can help insulate the roots and protect them from the cold.
Essential #7. Water and avoid desiccation!
Even in winter, your lawn still needs some water to stay healthy. Grassroots continue to grow throughout the winter, and they need water to do so. The best time to water your lawn is in the early morning so that the grass can absorb the water before it freezes.
Make sure to avoid watering late in the day or during periods of freezing temperatures, as this can cause the water to turn to ice and damage the grass. If you live in an area with a lot of snow, you can let the snow melt and provide water for the roots that way.
Final Verdict
And there it is! Seven of the most significant lawn care essentials you must know. By following these winter lawn care essentials, you can keep your lawn healthy and strong all winter long! So, what are you waiting for? Get your lawn in tip-top shape today!
