Fall is one of the best times of year for lawn care. The weeds are at a minimum, the grass is green and growing, and new life can be introduced into the lawn. Fall is the time of year to repair a stressed lawn and prepare it for winter.
Fertilization & Weed Control
Fertilizer in the fall and late fall are crucial for the lawn. A fall fertilizer helps repair a lawn from the stressors it endured over summer while a late fall or winter fertilization will strengthen the root system and build carbohydrates to prepare for the dormant winter months.
Mowing
Mowing will pick up a little during the fall compared to over summer. It is important to keep up on the mowings and be sure to use sharp mower blades and never removing more than 1/3 of the grass blade. When mowing does slow down right before winter, usually around Thanksgiving, a final mow will be needed at a lower setting.
Caution will need to be used when mowing if new seed have been put down. Once the seedlings begin to sprout, they need to be babied some. Heavy traffic, mower wheels, and weed eaters can damage or uproot the new grass.
Watering
During the fall, watering is more relaxed but still necessary; lawns still need about 1 inch of water each week to stay green and vibrant. Morning is still the best time to water the lawn to prevent diseases. If new seed is being introduced into the lawn, watering is essential. The surface of the soil, where the seed is, must remain moist to allow for proper germination.
Seeding & Aeration
Fall is the time of year to aerate the lawn to release compaction, as well as reseed. It is recommended that seed be applied after aeration is done, during the month of September if possible. A September seeding allows time for germination and growth before the winter dormancy
Clean Up
Its fall, that means the leaves are dropping and it’s time to break out the rakes. Allowing leaves and debris to lie on top of the lawn for too long, especially when wet, can cause problems and disease. It is best try and clean up the lawn as frequently as possible, or at least once after all of the trees have dropped their leaves completely.
If new seed was planted, this debris will need to be cleaned up with caution. Rakes and other lawn equipment can uproot the sprouting seedlings.
Sum it up
Fall is a great time of year to take care of your lawn and enjoy it. Be sure to follow the proper lawn care regime and watering schedule as well as keep up on lawn mowing and keeping it cleaned off. If aeration and overseeding is done, the lawn needs to be taken care up and once the grass begins to pop, use caution on the lawn while following these fall lawn care tips.
It is always a good idea to consult with a lawn care professional and ask any questions you may have. Look around, ask friends or family, and research companies on the Better Business Bureau to find a company that you can trust.