Should you do anything special with the last few mows of the season?
As the growing season comes to an end, you might be tempted to give your lawn one final mow and call it a day until spring. However, those last few mowing sessions are more crucial than you might think. They prepare your lawn for the harsh winter conditions and set the stage for a lush, vibrant yard come spring. Whether you’re a seasoned lawn care aficionado or a homeowner just wanting the best for your slice of nature, these last-minute mowing tips are for you.
Lower the grass height gradually
If your grass has enjoyed the liberty of growing tall during the summer to help protect against the heat and drought, it’s essential to prepare it for winter. You might feel the urge to mow it down all at once, but resist that temptation. Cutting more than a third of the grass blade’s length can stress the plant and contribute to poor root development. For the last 2-3 mows, consider lowering the cutting height on your mower gradually.
It is still NOT okay to mow wet grass
Autumn brings its own set of challenges, including dewy mornings and rainy afternoons. Mowing wet grass can lead to uneven cuts and result in the clumping of grass clippings, which could smother the lawn. Always aim to mow when the grass is dry.
How to deal with leaf accumulation
The fall season often coincides with leaves dropping from the trees. While a few leaves scattered here and there won’t cause any harm and can even serve as a natural mulch, a thick layer can create problems. Leaves can smother the grass, encourage pests, and lead to diseases like lawn mold. Be proactive about leaf removal; use a rake or leaf blower to clear the lawn before mowing.
Keep an eye on the weather?
One of the factors that could sneak up on you is the first hard frost of the year. Grass blades can suffer damage from frost, leaving them vulnerable to diseases. Be sure to check the weather forecasts and plan your final mows before the first frost sets in.
What to do with clippings
Throughout most of the mowing season, it’s beneficial to mulch your clippings back into the lawn, as they provide essential nutrients to the soil. However, during the last few mows, especially if you’ve had fungal issues like rust or snow mold in previous years, bagging might be the better option. Bagged clippings can be composted separately to reduce the risk of disease spores surviving through the winter. Read more about mulching vs. raking.
Is fertilizing after the last mow a good idea?
After the last mow is the perfect time to apply a slow-release, granular fertilizer to sustain your lawn throughout the winter. A fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium will help fortify root systems and improve the lawn’s overall health.
What about watering?
The need for watering after the last mow depends largely on your local climate. In areas with winter precipitation, additional watering might not be necessary. However, in drier regions, a final deep watering can provide the much-needed moisture to help your lawn endure the winter months.
Wrapping up
Taking special care during your lawn’s last few mows can significantly impact its health and appearance in the spring. Though it might seem like a lot of work, these steps are an investment in a lush, beautiful yard that you’ll be proud of. So as the season winds down, don’t neglect your lawn—give it the care it deserves.
For more information be sure to see your local independent OPE dealer.