Lawn Winterization Processes to Consider for Your Property

Lawn care is a seasonal pursuit by nature, and one of the key priorities for your lawn as we head into the fall season and eventually the winter around northern Utah is winterization. Which important areas should you be thinking about when it comes to lawn winterization before the coldest parts of the year hit?

At Logan Extermination, we’re proud to assist with a wide range of lawn care services for clients around Logan and nearby areas, including important lawn maintenance and winterization needs heading into later parts of fall and early winter. While not every lawn necessarily requires each and every one of the processes we’re about to discuss, here are some of the most common lawn winterization methods to be thinking about this time of year, plus the value they provide.

Pre-Winter Fertilization

One of the single most important lawn winterization techniques available is ensuring proper fertilization before the cold weather arrives. Fertilizing your lawn with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can help promote root growth and prepare your grass for winter dormancy. This will ultimately lead to a healthier, more resilient lawn come springtime.

On the other hand, if you do not fertilize your lawn before winter sets in, you may struggle with patchy or thin grass in the spring. This is because the grass did not have enough nutrients to sustain itself through the harsh winter conditions. So, be sure to plan ahead and add a round of fertilizer to your fall lawn care routine.

When it comes to choosing the ideal fertilizer for late fall periods, look for a product with a high ratio of nitrogen to potassium and phosphorus. Nitrogen is essential for promoting growth and green color in your grass, while potassium helps with root development and overall plant health. Phosphorus aids in strengthening the roots, which will be important in surviving the cold winter months.

Aeration

Another common process many property owners consider, whether yearly or every other year, is aeration. This process involves removing small plugs of soil from your lawn to allow for better air and water circulation. Aeration is particularly beneficial for compacted soils, as it helps to loosen the soil and improve root growth.

Aerating your lawn during late fall can have numerous benefits, especially when combined with fertilization. By allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the roots, you are setting your grass up for success in the spring. It also helps with drainage, preventing excess water from building up on the surface and potentially causing damage.

How do you know if your lawn is a good candidate for aeration? One way to test is by simply pushing a screwdriver into the ground. If it goes in easily, your lawn may not need aerating. However, if it takes some effort or the soil feels compacted, then aerating can greatly benefit your lawn.

Sprinkler Winterization

If you utilize underground sprinklers on your lawn, it’s important to properly winterize them before the temperatures drop below freezing. This process involves shutting off the water supply to the sprinkler system and draining any remaining water from the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads.

Why is this necessary? If water is left in the sprinkler system over the winter months, it can freeze and expand, causing damage to the pipes and other components. This can result in costly repairs or replacement come springtime.

To properly winterize your sprinkler system, you’ll need to follow a few steps:

1. Shut off the main water supply: Locate your main shut-off valve for your sprinkler system and turn it off. This will prevent any water from entering the system.
2. Drain all remaining water: Open all of your sprinkler heads manually to allow any remaining water to drain out.
3. Blow out the lines: This step is best left to a professional, as they will use specialized equipment to blow compressed air through the system and remove any residual water.
4. Inspect for damage: Once the system has been drained and blown out, it’s important to inspect for any damage or wear and tear on the components. Any necessary repairs should be taken care of before winter sets in.

Mice and Vole Prevention

Pest preventions is another important tactic as temperatures cool down and certain pests become more common, and two particular pests that can cause damage to your lawn are mice and voles. To prevent these unwanted visitors, here are some steps you can take:

1. Keep surrounding areas clean: Make sure to keep any debris or clutter away from your lawn, as it can provide hiding places for pests.
2. Seal openings: Inspect the perimeter of your home and seal any openings or cracks where pests could enter. This includes gaps around pipes, electrical wires, and other potential entry points.
3. Use deterrents: There are a variety of natural deterrents that can be placed near your lawn to discourage pests from making a home there. These include mint plants, garlic cloves, and citrus peels. You can also sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter, which is a natural substance that can help repel pests.
4. Keep plants trimmed: Overgrown plants and bushes near your lawn can provide shelter and food sources for pests. Trim back any vegetation so that there is at least a foot of space between it and your lawn.

Insect Spray

Finally, another basic pest control method for lawn winterization is using insect spray. There are many different types of sprays available, including organic and chemical options. You can use these sprays to target specific pests that are causing issues in your lawn.

Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions when using insect spray. Remember to thoroughly cover the entire lawn, including any areas where pests may be hiding or nesting.

At Logan Extermination, we’re happy to help with all your lawn winterization and other lawn maintenance needs around Logan and nearby areas. Contact us today to schedule service!