It feels like only yesterday we were all gearing up for Halloween, yet Thanksgiving just passed. Winter is practically upon us, folks, and it’s time to get ready for the impending cold season. Your lawn, unlike yourself, doesn’t have the option of retreating indoors once the arctic chill sets in, so let’s take a look at a few things you can do for your lawn before winter arrives…

 

Aerate

 

Aeration involves opening up the soil to promote a better environment for your lawn’s roots. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a coring style of aeration or a slicing type of style. Both get the job done and you only need to aerate your lawn on an occasional basis. However, aeration should only be performed if your soil is prone to compaction or if the thatch from the lawn clippings and litter exceeds half an inch in depth. Also, a rule of thumb, aerate on a day when the soil is moist but not soggy.

 

Rake

 

Hopefully, you have remained on top of this throughout the fall. If not, you likely have some work cut out for you. By continuing to rake leaves throughout the season until they are gone, in addition to the remnants left over after you mow, you’ll keep areas of your lawn from being smothered in leaves. By freeing up these areas, you’re keeping your lawn from being sun-deprived.

 

Protect Plants with Mulch

 

Spreading new mulch will help guard plants against the harsher weather once it arrives. We suggest distributing mulch around the base of shrubs and trees throughout your property. After the first hard freeze, disperse mulch two to four inches deep around your plants. Cover the soil completely and evenly, but be sure not to pack it down.

 

Continue to Mow and Cut Low

 

When prepping your lawn for winter, it’s important to cut your grass down to about one to one and a half inches. This makes it easier to aerate your lawn. Continuing to mow through fall can help with leaves in the yard, not to mention keeping things looking neat and tidy right up until the cold really settles in.

 

These are just a few of the things you can do to get your lawn prepped for the upcoming winter season. If you want your yard to be in good shape once winter rolls out and spring rolls in, be sure to follow our advice. No shame in doing some of your own research too! If you find you need extra help getting your lawn ready to go for the cold, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us at 781-858-8000 or fill out one of our online contact forms.