In order for the lawn to get through the winter well and look bright green in spring, you should pay extra attention to it in autumn. In addition to cleaning the area, it is important to mow again and strengthen the grass with the right fertilizer.
Remove fall leaves
Collect fallen fruit and leaves lying on the lawn regularly. This prevents fungal spores and snow mold from forming and causing lasting damage to the grass. In addition, the damp leaves would prevent oxygen from circulating, making the lawn susceptible to diseases.
Simply raking with a fan brush is sufficient to remove the leaves. You do not have to dispose of the collected leaves as long as they are free of fungi. They are well suited as warming winter protection for flower beds and rot under hedges and shrubs to become valuable fertilizer.
The last lawn cut
You should mow the lawn one last time before the temperature of the ground falls below ten degrees permanently. If the temperature falls below this value, the lawn stops growing and no longer needs a cut.
Do not cut the grass too short, otherwise, the frost will have an easy time and can damage the lawn’s root system. On the other hand, you should not leave the stalks too long, otherwise, they will be pressed to the ground and attacked by snow mold or fungi. The following cutting heights are recommended:
- Utility lawn: 40 mm
- Shade lawn: 50 millimeters
- Decorative lawn: 25 millimeters
- Herb lawn: 80 mm
Repair damage
After mowing, damage to the lawn is clearly visible. Thoroughly water burned and dried out areas and loosen the soil in these areas. Sprinkle the damaged areas with grass seed and press them down. Then cover the seed with soil and water regularly until fresh green has grown back.
Apply fall fertilizer
Rely on potassium-rich preparations for autumn fertilization. These ensure that the lawn becomes resistant to frost and survives the long winter months better. Potassium also ensures a good metabolism of the grass, so that it comes through the winter stronger.
You should never use fertilizers that are high in nitrogen and phosphorus, such as those used in spring. These would stimulate growth and make the stalks susceptible to cold and sensitive.
Tip
Usually, the lawn is scarified in April or May. If you find that a layer of felt has formed that is thicker than 5 millimeters, you can repeat the procedure in autumn.
However, the temperature should remain above ten degrees for a few more days. If it is already too cold, it is better to postpone this work until spring.
