Texas Lawn Winterizing definitely isn't what you thought it would be!
The best way to make sure that you have a thick, green and healthy lawn in the spring is to make sure all of the fall tasks are done. It all has to be done before the grass goes dormant.
The first task is removing leaves. It is a beautiful multi-color carpet when the tree leaves fall and land on your lawn. However, this is not healthy and must continuously be removed during the season, even if trees are bare. This helps prevent trapped moisture which creates a soggy, decaying mat that easily kills your grass.
The second task is to keep mowing your lawn. In Texas, grass continues to grow clear to the first frost. The optimum height in the fall is 2.5 to 3 inches in height. If you stop mowing, your grass will mat and be vulnerable to fungus. A very important note: It is a misconception to scalp before winter. Unless you are adding grass seed (most commonly known as Rye Grass) this is harmful for your grass because it curtails the root system. Root depth is proportional to cutting height and impedes the lawn's ability to withstand winter cold and dryness.
The third task is to continue watering. Even though there is more rain, dew and less evaporation, it may not be enough to keep those roots hydrated and strong for the winter weather. Aside from the day it rains, you must maintain a regular watering schedule. Make sure to check in with your local water restrictions.
The fourth task is aerate. This task does not have to be done frequently but is important to do at least every other fall season. This prevents soil from becoming compact and thatched (thick layers of roots, stems and debris from summer cuts). There are many aerate tools to choose from, from manual hand tools to gas-operated equipment, and all can be found at your local hardware store.
The fifth task is pre-emergent. It is recommended that a late fall application of a slow-release granular pre-emergent be done late October early November. When choosing a pre-emergent it is important to notice the numbers on the bag. These numbers indicate the percentage by weight of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Experts state that chlorophyll is produced by grass when there is enough Nitrogen and protects roots from freezing, to ultimately give them the energy to come back in the spring. Potassium is also important because it aids in root growth, disease protection, is drought tolerant and cold-resistant.
The sixth task is spread seed. It is important to over-seed existing turf (a task very often skipped) to create a dense lawn to protect against weeds. The fall is the best time to over-seed because the ground is still warm, the moisture keeps, the nights are cool and the sun is not as hot during the day.
If these tasks are hard to keep scheduled during the fall, a lawn care service such as Lawncare by Josie can help. These tasks may require the renting of equipment, tasks to be done in a timely manner, and the work sometimes can be tedious to complete. Delegating one, two or all of these tasks will ensure the work gets done when it should and you enjoy your lush green lawn all year long. Keep in mind each step above has to be done at the right time otherwise it is wasted effort. For instance, over seeding too late the seedlings will be too tender to survive. Pre-emerging too late and the grass roots won’t be able to absorb all nutrients. Aerate in the spring instead of fall will promote weed seeds to get established.
Call today 469-223-1325. Let us help before it is too late.
