Last week, I was reviewing my schedule and calendar when I realized that winter is just around the corner. You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal?” Well, if you’re a Delaware local like me, you know winter can be challenging for your lawn.
But don’t worry—At Kairos Landscaping, we’ve been in the landscaping business for over 20 years, and we are here to guide you through everything you need to do to help your grass through these chilly months.
Before the first snowflake hits the ground, cleaning your yard correctly is essential. Rake up all those fallen leaves and clear away any debris. You see, leaves can trap moisture and block sunlight, creating a breeding ground for fungi and pests that can harm your grass. And believe me, it will be much harder to deal with once that snow piles up.
Make sure you also remove any fallen branches or twigs. This clutter can suffocate your lawn, preventing it from “breathing” and getting the nutrients it needs.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got a lot of leaves, consider mulching them. It’s easy to turn those pesky leaves into a free, nutrient-rich treat for your grass.
I know what you’re thinking: “Should I mow my lawn before winter?” The answer is yes! Give your lawn one last trim, but keep the grass longer than usual—around 2 to 2.5 inches is suitable. This height helps the grass retain moisture and protects the roots from cold weather.
Cutting it too short can leave your lawn vulnerable to frost damage, and letting it grow too tall can make it a cozy spot for rodents. Finding that perfect middle ground helps keep your grass healthy all winter long.
If your lawn has been looking a bit tired or patchy, it might be time to aerate. Aeration simply means poking small holes in the soil to let air, water, and nutrients reach the grass roots more easily. Think of it like giving your lawn a nice, deep breath before it goes to sleep for the winter.
You can use a handheld aerator or rent a machine from your local hardware store. Trust me, it’s well worth the effort—especially if your lawn sees a lot of foot traffic throughout the year.
Late fall or early winter is a great time to fertilize your lawn. Using a slow-release, winter-specific fertilizer will give your grass the nutrients it needs to survive the cold and return strong in the spring.
Choose a fertilizer high in potassium, as this nutrient helps strengthen the roots and increase the grass’s resistance to disease. Remember, the goal here isn’t to make your grass grow like crazy now; it’s about giving it a solid foundation for the months ahead.
Even though it’s colder outside, your lawn needs water—especially if Delaware experiences a dry winter. However, you don’t want to overdo it. Water is enough to keep the soil moist, but avoid soaking it. Too much water combined with freezing temperatures can lead to ice damage, which isn’t suitable for your grass.
And speaking of water, if you haven’t already winterized your sprinkler system, now’s the time! I’ve written a guide on how to do that—check it out to ensure your pipes don’t freeze and burst during those freezing nights.
Snow mold is a sneaky little problem that can creep up on you when the snow starts to melt. It’s a type of fungus that thrives under heavy, wet snow. As I mentioned, the best way to prevent it is by not letting your lawn grow too long before winter and by raking up leaves and other debris.
If you notice gray or pink mold patches when the snow melts, gently rake the area to increase air circulation. This will help the grass recover more quickly.
This might seem small, but walking on frozen grass can cause severe damage. When the grass is covered in frost, it’s brittle and can easily snap, leaving unsightly brown patches in your yard. So, make it a habit to stay off the lawn on those frosty mornings.
Believe it or not, the best time to start planning your spring lawn care is now. Winter is when your grass takes a break, but that doesn’t mean you should! Make a note of any issues you had this year—like thinning grass or bare patches—so you can address them when the weather warms up.
Taking care of your lawn in the winter might seem like extra work, but it’s about setting yourself up for success. A little effort now goes a long way when spring rolls around. So, grab that rake, spread a bit of fertilizer, and remember to give your lawn a little breathing room.
Kairos Landscaping has created green havens for 20+ years. Reach out to us for affordable, prompt & unique landscaping services in Delaware!
