Although Southern winters are typically milder than in other regions, protecting your lawn from cold temperatures and frost is still vital for ensuring its health throughout the season. Fortunately, a few basic care procedures will help you keep your property safe, healthy, and ready to thrive when you uncover your lawn equipment in the spring. Here's how to take care of your lawn this winter.

How to Protect Your Grass Until Spring

1. Avoid Overwatering

Many homeowners aren't aware that the lawn requires regular watering during the winter, too. However, because dormant grass is unable to absorb the same quantities of moisture as during the spring and summer, it's important to reduce the sprinklers’ output accordingly. 

Generally, it’s best to restrict your watering schedule to the equivalent of just 1 inch of water per week. Overwatering could kill or injure your grass.

2. Discourage Heavy Traffic

During winter dormancy, grass is often less resilient than in summer. It becomes weak and fragile as it directs its energy toward preserving its roots. Injury is even more likely when grass blades are covered in frost in the morning. 

Discourage family members from walking on the lawn too much during the winter, and take the dog on extra walks to minimize the time they spend on the dormant grass. The kids might have a play set out back, and you may wish to enjoy a little time out in the cold. If it’s necessary to walk across your lawn, try to do so only after the sun has melted any frost.

3. Rake Up Leaves & Debris

Organic debris like fallen leaves, pine needles, twigs, and thatch can raise the risk of disease and shade damage to your grass. This is why it's important to remove this suffocating layer and maximize the lawn's exposure to sunlight and nutrients. After raking, it's beneficial to keep the property free of debris using convenient lawn equipment, such as a lawn sweeper. 

This winter and next spring, turn to Southside Equipment for all the lawn equipment you need to protect your property. Serving the Milledgeville, GA, area since 1990, this lawn and garden equipment center offers an extensive selection of tools and machinery from top manufacturers, such as Stihl®, Kubota®, and Cub Cadet®. They also offer a wide range of replacement parts, maintenance supplies, and essential safety equipment and clothing. Call (478) 452-5523 to discuss your needs today and visit them online to check out their inventory.