During the fall, you often no longer need to mow your lawn as often. However, you should take some steps to prepare it for the winter ahead. The guide below looks at best practices and what lawn and garden supplies you'll need to keep your grass healthy. 

How to Protect Your Lawn During the Winter

1. Mow Your Lawn to the Proper Length

If grass grows too long during winter, you risk it matting. This occurs when long grass covers new growth and deprives it of air and water. Cutting your grass too short is also problematic, as it shortens the root system as well, which means your lawn will store fewer nutrients. Accordingly, cut your grass to 2 to 2.5 inches ahead of winter frost.

2. Aerate Compacted Soil

Compacted soil has a hard time letting water and air reach grass roots. It also prevents them from accessing nutrients as needed. Aeration involves inserting an instrument into the earth to break up compacted soil. It also helps reduce thatch, which is an accumulation of organic material on the top of your lawn. When you aerate, it allows microorganisms to come up from deep within the earth to wear down thatch to prevent it from trapping moisture and encouraging fungal growth. 

3. Overseed to Fill Bare Spots

Overseeding involves laying grass seed over an existing lawn to deal with dead and brown spots. Fall temperatures make for the ideal overseeding conditions, as the weather tends to be cooler. Grass seeds are better protected in cool weather, as summer heat is associated with a higher risk of disease. 

4. Fertilize Before the First Frost Arrives

Fertilization ensures grass roots have the proper nutrients they need to thrive, which is crucial during the winter when soil is less nutritionally rich. Fertilization is also most effective after aeration, as nutrients will be able to penetrate deep into the ground. When spring arrives, you'll enjoy bright, vibrant, and healthy grass. 

If you are looking for lawn and garden supplies to help you prepare for winter, turn to Bolivar Farmers Exchange. Since 1920, this team has helped residents in Polk County, MO, maintain their landscapes and farms, thanks to their wonderful products and extensive knowledge. Visit the website to learn more about their lawn and garden supplies. Call (417) 326-5231 with questions.