Autumn is crucial for preparing your lawn to survive the winter months, and to flourish next spring and summer.
During fall, grass begins building up a reserve of nutrients and focusing on the health of the root system, making it a vital growing period. To ensure you get the most out of your outdoor space all year, use these tips to maintain your yard's attractiveness and health.
- Obtain the appropriate winterization fertilizer for your type of grass in order to promote root growth. The more developed your root system, the more moisture the grass can absorb when the summer's heat returns. Fertilizer also helps prepare your lawn to fight off insects and fungal damage.
- Aerate your yard to break up compacted soil and remove excessive thatch (or dead grass). Perforating the soil with small holes helps sunlight, air, water, and nutrients better absorb into the ground. This is especially necessary if your yard has seen high traffic this summer.
- Remove debris, such as branches, leaves, and dead plants, as these will suffocate the lawn and cause dead spots. Debris can also harbor moisture and promote the growth of harmful organisms. Using a rake in particular will help to dethatch your lawn.
- Tend to the garden by either covering your flowerbeds if necessary, or bringing smaller plants indoors that have a low tolerance for coldertemperatures. Remove weeds right away as these tend to birth seeds in the fall. Remember to also shut off all outdoor water fixtures to prevent costly bursting pipes later.
Early autumn is a crucial time for taking care of your entire yard. To maintain an appealing and healthy outdoor living space all year, be sure to have your lawn maintained for the encroaching winter season.