Weeds that slowly slowly crowd out turf grass, the odd bare patch where grass just doesn't want to grow, your dog's favorite potty spot — for whatever reason, your lawn's just not looking so hot these days. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do now to ensure a thick and lush lawn when spring rolls around.
1. Continue mowing until the first frost. Keep your grass at its normal height so that the leaves can photosynthesize and be at its healthiest before winter stressors hit.
2. Remove leaves and debris regularly. Aim for about once a week, if you can — this keeps the job manageable each time and prevents leaves from building up and suffocating the grass underneath.
3. Water your lawn the right way. Water deeply, but less frequently than in summer — aim for about an inch each week.
4. Aerate your lawn if necessary. This reduces and prevents soil compaction, allows grass to access nutrients and water more easily, and enhances oxygen flow to roots. A professional lawn care company with commercial equipment will be able to do this quickly and effectively. If your grass is thin and patchy, you may want to schedule an overseeding service at the same time.
5. Fertilize your grass to support root growth and ensure that nutrients will be available when the dormancy period ends in the spring. Choose a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer, such as 24-4-12.
6. Treat and prevent weeds now. Broadleaf selective herbicides can target weeds that are already present. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to suppress new weeds after soil temperatures have dropped to between 70 and 55 degrees. If you plan to overseed your lawn, do not apply a pre-emergent herbicide until your new grass has already established itself.
