Winter Cleanup: Raking, Aerating, Mowing Proper Landscape Equipment is Key to Healthy Spring Lawn

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As the winter season approaches, it is important to invest time in caring for lawns in the cooler months. Preparation and continued care now will earn a healthier lawn when spring arrives. It is a common misperception that turf maintenance is needed less in the fall and winter. This could not be farther from the truth. If you are a landscape professional, it is important you take some time and effort to build your customers´ awareness of the importance of turf winterization.

The steps of preparation needed to prep each lawn will vary depending on the location and the type of grass. It is important to remember that for all grass types and all climate zones, although the top growth is dormant, the grass is still alive. With the proper preparation and care in the fall and winter, the turf will remain healthy and sustained during the winter and will turn into a plush lawn in the spring. To obtain that healthy lawn, the following tips will serve as your planning guide.

1. Fertilize – With fertilization, extra nutrients are provided that the grass will store and use during dormancy. The final fall/winter application is the most important since roots continue to grow beneath the surface and the stored nutrients will enable the grass to survive through the winter.

2. Aerate – Defend against turf compaction brought on by summer activities and traffic. It will also lead to healthier levels of air, water, nutrient and gas exchange. Aeration should be done about two weeks prior to the final fertilizer application.

3. Water – Make sure grass gets adequate water if there is not enough winter rainfall or snow. Some areas where there is adequate rainfall or snow, supplementary watering is not necessary. However, it is critical in areas not receiving the proper levels of hydration to help counter winter winds that leave lawns dry and damaged.

4. Mow – Cutting at the right mower height can help save on raking or bagging lawn clippings. However, when the task is necessary due to large amounts, collecting grass clippings and leaves can be made easier with a grass and leaf catcher. When mowing at lower cutting heights, you strengthen the roots and crown with increased nutrients that would normally be absorbed by longer blades of grass. When mowing cool season grasses, the mower height can be set at two inches whereas the height can be set to one inch for warm season grasses. It is important to avoid allowing the grass to lay over on itself under the weight of moisture or snow. This may lead to matting and disease the following spring.

5. Rake – If a heavy layer of leaves are left on the lawn, it can lead to an unhealthy lawn with brown patches. Once the majority of the leaves have fallen and been raked, the fewer remaining leaves may be turned into a form of fertilizer with a mulching mower. The leaves and grass clippings left on the lawn will begin to decompose and incorporate an organic matter into the soil. For large areas that need raking or to be cleared of small debris, consider switching to a http://www.j-thomas.com/catalog/295_kawasaki_trimmer_edger_blowers.html">backpack leaf blower.

6. Overseeding – This will increase density and brings an overall improvement in health and appearance the following spring. Overseeding also helps defend against weed and insect damage.

7. Tree Cleanup – Make sure overgrown plants are trimmed and dead limbs are removed. For more extensive tree care, an extended reach saw or chainsaw may be used. Remember to use necessary safety precautions when operating any outdoor power equipment, whether it´s a chainsaw, lawn mower, etc.

8. Proper Lawn Equipment Care – Don´t forget to prepare equipment for the winter too. Whether it is routine service or thorough preparation, make sure all equipment is ready and properly stored for the harsher winter months. Oil, filters and spark plugs will need to be changed and the gas should be drained. A fuel additive, such as Sta-bil®, can be added to prolong the life of both the mower and the fuel. Also, remember to check the lawn mower blades. Come spring, mowing with dull blades will harm the turf and lead to an unsightly lawn.

With this plan in place, you are much more likely to have great results in the coming spring. As the saying typically goes, the early bird gets the worm. With a little early preparation and some hard work, a beautiful lawn can be obtained and enjoyed throughout the summer. To learn more, please visit www.j-thomas.com or call (800) 828-7980.