Tips and Tricks for Landscaping Success

Posted on: 13 November 2017

Fall is a time when many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief since the long summer of constant mowing is finally over. Of course, winter may also be met with some trepidation, since a single bad winter can damage all the hard work you put into your lawn over summer. The following tips can help you with lawn maintenance over winter so it looks wonderful once spring arrives.

Tip #1: Trim but don't scalp

Don't go into winter with long grass, since it will get matted under snow. This matting then blocks water and oxygen flow in spring, which can result in dead brown patches. Mowing to closely, a process called scalping, is just as bad. Grass needs some leaf blade length to act as mulch for the roots, otherwise winter cold expose can kill or weaken them. Cut your grass about ½ inch shorter than usual during your final fall mow. This should be sufficient to prevent matting without leading to any scalping issues.

Tip #2: Rake up the leaves

Any leaves or other debris left on top of the grass is going to increase the chances of both snow mold growth and dead spots as the soggy leaves suffocate the lawn. Rake only when temperatures are above freezing, though – pulling a rake over frozen grass can damage it. If necessary due to temperatures, use a leaf blower to move the leaves to a paved surface where you can gather them. The goal is not to damage the lawn but to also get the leaves up.

Tip #3: Stay off the lawn

Walking occasionally on a snow packed lawn or letting the kids play outside is okay. The problem is if you walk the same path day after day across your lawn when it is covered in snow. This packs down the snow and wears out the grass at time when it isn't growing. This means it won't have a chance to recover. Take the time to shovel your pathways so you aren't tempted to shortcut across the lawn when it is covered in snow.

Tip #4: Remove snow carefully

Snow removal from paths and drives can also damage the lawn. If you use a chemical ice melt, sweep up the excess once it is done melting so it doesn't get brushed onto the grass where it can cause damage. When shoveling and snow blowing, spread out the snow over the lawn. Building a single giant snow pile or berm puts a lot of weight and eventually water onto one area of the lawn, which can lead to damage.

For more help, contact a lawn maintenance company in your area.