Lush spring lawns get their roots in autumn. Fertilizing your lawn now prevents winter weeds and strengthens growth for a dense green lawn in spring. Here is what to do now.
Fertilize and apply pre-emergent
Application of slow-release fertilizer fortifies roots before winter’s deep freeze. The Farmer’s Almanac predicts a warmer winter, which means weeds will keep growing. You can tap down the growth of weeds by also applying a pre-emergent to stop weeds before they start.
Overseed with rye
If you would like a green lawn all winter, overseed with cool-season grasses like ryegrass. Cool season grasses have strong root systems which help your lawn recover from summer stress and protect from winter damage. By filling in bare spots, winter grasses also protect against weed growth.
Aerate the soil
After summer’s hot, dry conditions, lawns and exposed areas become heavily compacted, preventing the flow of air, water and nutrients to roots. Aerating now and again in spring restores the flow of nutrients, prevents disease, improves drainage and thickens your lawn.
Keep mowing and mulching
As lawn growth slows, keep mowing to prevent weeds and to mulch leaves. Mulching leaves keeps your lawn healthy by depositing a fine layer of nutrients, while preventing accumulated leaves from suffocating your lawn.
