Posted on November 27, 2022 by Jeremiah Sooter

When it comes to Winter lawn care in the four states, there isn’t a one size fits all solution. That’s because so many different types of grasses can grow in our region of the country. 

From cool-season to warm-season grasses, a range of grasses grow here in the four states. Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass are among the most popular warm-season grasses, while fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrasses get categorized as cool-season grasses.

So whether you have warm- or cool-season grass, your winter lawn care in the four states is easily accomplished in five steps.

1. Clear the last of the Fall leaves
2. Final season lawn mow
3. Avoid surface rolling
4. Soils get water-charged from Winter snowfall
5. Stop using salts and ice melts

Clear the Last of the Fallen Leaves

Although there is some debate about whether you should or should not clear your lawn of fallen leaves, it’s best not to wait until the last minute, either. Make it a regular weekend routine to have fallen leaves and branches removed.

That will eliminate any leaves that might be diseased from covering your lawn too long, which may dot your yard with areas of dead spots. If you wish to keep the leaf piles for composting, transfer the leaves to a composting pile or bin, giving the leaves ample time to decompose and become nutrient-rich finished compost.

Final Season Lawn Mow

After the remaining leaf fall and debris are cleared from your lawn, conduct a final lawn mow. That will remove any excess growth.

Avoid Surface Rolling

Avoid surface compaction of wet or moist soils. Also, reducing foot traffic and lawn activities throughout winter can help avoid lawn compaction and damaging dormant grass. 

Hold off until late winter thawing begins; if you see the appearance of ground heaving or mole activity, performing surface rolling is perfectly acceptable.

Soils Get Water-Charged From Winter Snowfall

Watering your lawn during winter is optional while your grass is dormant. Soils get water-charged from winter snowfall and Spring precipitation, which should encourage early growth and greener springtime grass.

Stop Using De-icer Salts or Ice Melt Products

When ice or snow builds up on sidewalks and driveways, homeowners sometimes reach for de-icer salts or ice melt products. Unfortunately, these products can kill grasses, no matter if you’re growing warm-season or cool-season grass.

Turfgrasses do not thrive and often die off because of the chemicals used in de-icing products. Instead, try using a water-soluble fertilizer or a calcium chloride.

Contact A Lawn Care Professional

If you’re looking for an extra hand with your Winter yard duties, contact the team at Ground Up Services today by calling (417) 439-1009. Their team of lawn care professionals can help get your lawn ready for the perfect Spring growth.

The team at Ground Up Services has 15 years of experience serving the four states, the team of professionals can help you with additional landscaping, lawn care and drainage services too.

• Drainage Management
• Yard Regrading
• Basement & Foundation Waterproofing
• Lawn Leveling