Fall Lawn Care Essentials

It’s Time For Fall Lawn Care

As fall approaches, you might be wondering where the summer has gone, or perhaps you’re already immersed in the busy activities that lead us to the end of the year. Regardless, your lawn is probably calling out, asking, “What about me?”

So, what should you do? You might have considered that late winter is the ideal time for lawn repairs or to lay new grass, but fall is actually when you should be gearing up to ensure your lawn flourishes into a vibrant green next spring.

To help you enjoy all the seasonal festivities, consider hiring lawn care services to manage everything for you. However, if you’d prefer to take matters into your own hands, we have some tips to keep you on track.

If the leaves are falling, here’s what you should do for your lawn:

Don’t Let Weeds Take Root

Weeds also strive to survive the winter, establishing deep roots. Now is the time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide to thwart their growth before it starts. Most herbicides work best when daytime temperatures are still above 60°F, so don’t delay!

Aerate the Soil

If your soil is heavy in clay or has been compacted, now is the prime time to aerate your lawn. Aerating involves removing small plugs of soil to enhance the grass roots’ access to oxygen, water, and fertilizers. Even DIY enthusiasts might want to hire a professional for this task due to the heaviness of the equipment involved.

Some homeowners also consider options like Lawn Liquid Aeration to maintain resilient grass as temperatures change.

Adjust the Watering Schedule

As temperatures cool, grass growth slows, but it still requires about an inch of water weekly. If you receive regular rain, that may suffice. Implementing a sprinkler and irrigation system can help conserve water, as Drake Lawn & Pest Control suggests.

Perform a simple test by placing empty containers around your yard to check water levels after a week. If you find they have not reached an inch, it’s time to add irrigation. The “tuna can test” is another useful method to ensure even sprinkler coverage across your lawn.

Fertilize

Applying fertilizer at this time will provide essential nutrients, enabling your grass to establish deep roots in preparation for winter and upcoming warmth in spring. If your grass follows a twice-a-year feeding schedule, fertilize again in spring.

Adjust the Mowing Schedule

As fall progresses, grass grows more slowly, reducing the frequency of mowing. When your grass reaches the recommended height (typically between 2 and 4 inches), mow it down to about one-third of its height. Regular mowing keeps your lawn healthy and helps it resist weeds and pests, while also efficiently mulching fallen leaves.

Overseed

Overseeding, or spreading new seed across your lawn, is an effective way to ensure it grows thick and healthy come spring. Even if your lawn seems mostly healthy, there’s always room for improvement. While many think spring is the optimal time for overseeding, fall is often actually better since the ground remains warm without the intensity of summer heat.

Dethatch and Rake

While a few scattered autumn leaves can enhance your lawn’s appeal, too many can suffocate the grass, especially when combined with moisture. Rake enough to remove thatch (the dense layer of accumulated plant material) to allow water and air to reach the soil beneath. Be cautious not to over-rake, as this can damage your lawn. Also, clear any furniture and large toys from the lawn to prevent deterioration over winter.