Most people probably don’t think of late fall/early winter as a prime time for lawn care. However, the health of your lawn deeply depends on your preparation at this time. Before the extreme winter conditions arrive, take the proper steps to prepare your lawn for winter dormancy, so you will welcome a satisfying spring.
Schedule fertilizer application ASAP
The time has passed (November 15th) for homeowners to fertilize their lawns on their own. Maryland Nutrient Law forbids any application of fertilizer from November 15th through March 1st. However, professionals that have their Maryland Nutrient Management License can apply up to .5lb of fast release Nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 square feet until December 1 (Contact Complete Lawn Care now to make the deadline!).
Keep on mowing
Grass decelerates its growth this time of year, but it is still growing. It’s recommended to continue mowing at 2.5” for cool season grasses (Tall Fescue, Bluegrass and Fine Fescue) and 1.5” to 2” for warm season grasses (Zoysia and Bermuda grass).
Clean up debris
That blanket of leaves on your lawn may not look damaging, but it can be! Make sure to remove the leaves before winter dormancy, as they will prevent your lawn from receiving the light and air it needs to survive. Rake, blow, or vacuum the leaves from your lawn, and either reuse them as natural mulch in your garden and flower beds, turn them into compost, or send them for composting at a local facility (as done by Montgomery County, Rockville, and Gaithersburg).
Plant flowers
Time is quickly running out to install spring flowering bulbs. Spring flowers add a colorful change to your lawn, and are especially appealing after the last bit of snow finally melts. If you would like to see flowers in your yard come spring, right now is the time to install them!
A little lawn preparation goes a long way. Just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean your lawn doesn’t need TLC. Prepare your lawn for winter dormancy and reap the reward of a glorious spring. Contact Complete Lawn Care to receive a free analysis and estimate of your lawn today. Don’t delay!