Fall Lawn Care Tips for Northern Kentucky

As autumn leaves paint the Northern Kentucky landscape, it's time to think about preparing your lawn for winter. Fall is the ideal season to ensure your lawn bounces back healthy and green in the spring. By following these simple tips, you can give your lawn the TLC it needs to thrive.

1. Remove the Leaves:
Fallen leaves can smother your grass, preventing sunlight and air from reaching the roots. Regularly rake or blow leaves away throughout the fall, especially in areas where the wind piles them up. Leaving a thick layer of leaves over winter can kill the grass underneath.
2. Mow Regularly:
Don't put away the mower just yet! Grass continues to grow until the first hard frost, so keep mowing regularly to maintain an ideal height of 2.5-3 inches. Mowing too short can weaken the grass, making it vulnerable to winter damage, while leaving it too long can mat and create conditions for disease.
3. Water Deeply:
Don't let cooler temperatures fool you; your lawn still needs water during the fall. If your lawn isn't receiving at least an inch of water per week through natural rainfall, supplement with deep watering sessions. This will help the roots stay hydrated and healthy throughout the winter.
4. Aerate and Overseed:
Aerate your lawn to improve drainage and loosen compacted soil. This allows water and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. Fall is also the perfect time to overseed bare patches or thin areas with new grass seed. This will give the new seedlings time to establish themselves before winter arrives.

5. Apply Fertilizer:
A late-fall application of slow-release fertilizer will help your lawn store nutrients for the winter and promote strong root growth. Choose a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content, as this encourages root development.
6. Sharpen Mower Blades:
Sharp mower blades cut cleanly, reducing stress on the grass and preventing disease. Before storing your mower for the winter, be sure to sharpen the blades.
7. Remove Debris:
Before the first snowfall, remove any remaining debris from your lawn, such as branches, leaves, and toys. This will help prevent snow mold and other winter problems.

Bonus Tips:

• Winterize your irrigation system to avoid damage from freezing temperatures.
• Don't apply weed killers during the fall, as they may damage dormant grass.
• Consider hiring Prime Cut Lawn & Landscaping to handle fall tasks like aeration, overseeding, and fertilization.
  

By taking the time to properly care for your lawn in the fall, you can ensure it thrives next spring. Following these simple tips will help you achieve a lush, green lawn that you can be proud of.