As the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, it’s time to give your lawn a little extra love before winter’s chill truly settles in. Preparing your yard for fall in New England isn’t just about raking leaves — it’s about nurturing your grass so it stays healthy, lush, and ready to bounce back come spring. So grab your gloves and some compost, and let’s get that lawn looking its best!
Watering Tips for Fall
- Keep it consistent: As temps cool, grass doesn’t need as much water, but don’t let it go too dry! Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
- Water deeply: Give your lawn a thorough soak so water reaches the roots—less frequent, deeper watering encourages strong root growth.
- Time it right: Early morning is best — it allows excess moisture to evaporate and keeps fungi at bay.
Fertilizer Suggestions
- Go for fall-specific fertilizer: Look for fertilizers high in potassium, which helps your grass endure winter stress and promotes strong roots.
- Timing is key: Apply fertilizer in late September or early October, giving your lawn a boost right before it goes dormant.
- Easy does it: Avoid overdoing it—too much fertilizer can scorch your grass or promote disease. Follow the label instructions carefully.
Reseeding and Lawn Repair
- Spot check: Walk around and look for thin or bare patches — these areas are prime candidates for reseeding.
- Prepare the soil: Rake away dead grass and loosen the soil to give new seeds a good chance to settle.
- Select the right seed: Use a cool-season grass seed suitable for your region—fescue or Kentucky bluegrass often do the trick.
- Cover lightly: Spread a thin layer of compost or topsoil over newly seeded patches to protect the seeds and retain moisture.
A few extra tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your mower blades sharp: A clean cut helps your grass stay healthier and less prone to disease.
- Clear out leaves regularly: Mulching leaves back into your lawn can add nutrients, but too many can smother the grass.
- Don’t forget aeration: If your lawn gets heavy use or looks bumpy, aerating can help improve soil drainage and root growth.
A little effort now will reward you with a vibrant, healthy yard that’s ready to shine when springtime rolls around! And, as always, M.A.G. Irrigation Inc is always here to help you make any adjustments to your system and assist you with your watering needs!
