Now that the fall season is upon us here in the Rogue Valley, it’s time to think about getting your lawn ready for winter. Here in Southern Oregon we plant cool season lawn grass. This type of grass goes semi-dormant in the winter months. So now is the time to prep your lawn for winter months. Must do’s for fall lawn care for fall lawn care:

1. Taking care of your lawn in the fall is essential to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant throughout the year. Here are some fall lawn care tips:

   1. Raking Leaves: Keep your lawn clear of fallen leaves. Leaves can block sunlight and trap moisture, which can promote disease and moss growth. You can use a rake or a leaf blower to clear them.
   2. Mowing: Continue to mow your lawn as needed, but gradually lower the cutting height in preparation for winter. The last few mowings of the season should leave your grass slightly shorter than usual.
   3. Aerate: Aerating your lawn helps improve soil compaction and allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil. You can rent an aerator or hire a professional for this task.
   4. Fertilize: Fall is an excellent time to fertilize your lawn. Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote root growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
   5. Overseeding: If your lawn has bare patches or thin areas, consider overseeding in the fall. This involves spreading grass seed over the existing lawn. Water the area well after overseeding.
   6. Weed Control: Control weeds in the fall to prevent them from spreading in the spring. Apply herbicides or manually remove weeds as needed.
   7. Watering: Continue to water your lawn as necessary, especially if you live in an area with dry and windy fall conditions. Ensure your lawn receives about 1 inch of water per week if rainfall is insufficient.
   8. Clean Up: Remove any debris, dead plants, and garden ornaments from your lawn. This prevents them from smothering the grass and provides a clean slate for the next growing season.
   9. Prune Trees and Shrubs: Trim any overhanging branches or shrubs that might be blocking sunlight or dropping excess leaves onto your lawn.
   10. Winterize Equipment: If you have lawn equipment like lawnmowers or trimmers with gas engines, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for winter storage. Drain the fuel or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent damage.
   11. Dethatching: If your lawn has a thatch problem (a layer of dead grass and organic material), consider dethatching it. This can improve water and nutrient penetration.
   12. Protect Against Lawn Pests: Fall is a good time to apply pest control measures if your lawn has a history of insect problems.
   13. Consider a Fall Soil Test: A soil test can provide valuable information about the nutrient content of your soil. Based on the results, you can adjust your fertilization plan accordingly.
   14. Mulch Flower Beds: If you have flower beds near your lawn, consider adding a layer of mulch to insulate and protect plants during the winter.
   15. Plan for Winter: If you live in an area with harsh winters, prepare for snow and ice removal by having shovels, snow blowers, and ice melt on hand.

   Following these fall lawn care tips, we can ensure that your lawn stays healthy and looks its best when spring arrives. Proper fall maintenance sets the stage for a lush and thriving lawn in the coming year.

    

Our lawn care maintenance service, Rogue Valley Lawn Care, can provide you with full service lawn care. We will prep your lawn for fall, winterize you irrigation system and keep your lawn good all year round.

Call us today for a quote….458-212-4486