How to Adjust Grass Height in Fall for Optimal Winter Survival in the Midwest

As fall arrives in the Midwest, it's time to start thinking about how to adjust the height of your lawn grass for optimal winter survival. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps you can take to ensure your grass is healthy and strong when the snow melts away in the spring.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Grass in Your Lawn

The first step to adjusting grass height for optimal winter survival is to determine the type of grass in your lawn. There are two primary types of grasses used in the Midwest: cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses.

Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue, grow best in temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. These grasses are well-suited for the cooler climate of the Midwest and are more tolerant of winter weather.

Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, and St. Augustine grass, grow best in temperatures between 80-95 degrees Fahrenheit. These grasses are less tolerant of cold weather and may require special care during the winter months.

Step 2: Adjust Mowing Height

Once you've identified the type of grass in your lawn, it's time to adjust the mowing height. During the fall months, it's recommended to gradually lower the mowing height of cool-season grasses. This will allow more sunlight to reach the grass blades, which will encourage stronger root growth.

For the first mowing of the fall season, only remove about one-third of the blade length. Then, for subsequent mowings, gradually lower the height until you reach the desired winter height. For most cool-season grasses, a winter height of 2-3 inches is recommended.

On the other hand, for warm-season grasses, it's recommended to maintain a slightly taller height during the fall months. This will help the grass better survive any potential cold snaps or frost.

Step 3: Fertilize Appropriately

Proper fertilization is essential to ensure your lawn is healthy and strong during the winter months. During the fall, it's recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.

Nitrogen is essential for strong grass growth and will help your lawn better tolerate cold weather. It's important to apply the fertilizer before the first hard frost, which is typically in October or November in the Midwest.

Step 4: Water Properly

Watering your lawn properly is another critical step in preparing it for winter. During the fall months, it's recommended to water your lawn deeply but infrequently. This will encourage deeper root growth, which will help the grass better tolerate cold weather.

It's important to water your lawn in the morning, so the grass blades have a chance to dry before nighttime temperatures drop. This will help prevent fungal growth and other diseases that can harm your grass.

Step 5: Aerate Your Lawn

Aerating your lawn is an important step in promoting healthy grass growth. During the fall months, it's recommended to aerate your lawn to help loosen compacted soil and improve water and nutrient uptake.

Aeration involves creating small holes in the soil, which allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily. This will help your grass better survive the winter months and promote stronger growth in the spring.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting grass height for optimal winter survival is an important part of lawn care in the Midwest. By following the steps outlined above, you can help ensure your grass is healthy and strong when the snow melts away in the spring.

It's important to note that each lawn is unique and may require slightly different care depending on factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and grass type. It's always a good idea to consult with a lawn care professional or your local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations tailored to your lawn.

Proper lawn care during the fall months is crucial to ensure optimal winter survival for lawns in the Midwest. By adjusting grass height, mowing regularly, overseeding, fertilizing, and aerating, you can help your lawn withstand harsh winter conditions and promote stronger growth in the spring. However, maintaining a healthy lawn can be time-consuming and challenging. That's where Rock and Mow Lawncare comes in. Our team of experienced professionals has the expertise and tools to take care of your lawn and prepare it for winter, allowing you to focus on your business operations. So if you're a business owner looking to keep your lawn in top shape this winter, reach out to us at Rock and Mow Lawncare today. We'll be happy to provide you with a customized lawn care plan tailored to your specific needs and preferences.