As our sweltering summer temperatures give way to the cool air of fall, it's easy to think that lawn care can take a backseat. However, fall is an ideal time to focus some efforts on preparing your yard for the upcoming winter and spring. There are plenty of tasks that can be done to ensure the health of your yard like leaf removal and mulching, but there are also some common mistakes can hinder your efforts and lead to issues later. Here are some top fall lawn care mistakes to avoid this fall.
Neglecting Weed Control
While it may seem like weeds are no longer a concern as temperatures cool, fall is actually a prime time to tackle them. In Georgia, common cool-season weeds like Poa annua and chickweed can start sprouting in the fall, preparing to take over your lawn during the winter and spring months. Neglecting weed control now means you'll have a bigger problem to deal with later. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early fall can help prevent these weeds from establishing.
Mowing Too Short
Mowing your lawn too short as the weather cools can weaken the grass and expose it to stress, making it more vulnerable to disease and damage. During the fall, raise your mower blade slightly to leave the grass a bit longer. Aim to keep your lawn at about 2.5 to 3 inches tall to maintain a healthy balance.
Ignoring Leaf Buildup
While our fall leaves might be beautiful, letting them pile up on your lawn is a common mistake. A thick layer of leaves can smother your grass, blocking sunlight and trapping moisture, which can lead to fungal diseases. Make sure to regularly remove leaves, either by raking them or by mulching them and redistributing them in a layer that can decompose and enrich the soil.
Watering Too Little or Too Much
Some homeowners make the mistake of drastically reducing watering in the fall, because they believe the cooler weather means less water is needed. While it's true that you may not need to water as frequently as in the summer, your lawn still needs consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. However, overwatering can also be a problem, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases. So, keep an eye on how much and how frequently you water your lawn. To understand more about best watering practices, read our blog Top Watering Practices.
Avoiding these mistakes will go a long way in maintaining your healthy yard, this fall. By focusing on fertilization, weed control, proper mowing, leaf management and appropriate watering, you can ensure that your lawn is well-prepared to survive the winter and flourish in the spring. A little extra attention in the fall will pay off with a stronger lawn when the warm weather returns. So, skip the mistakes and if you need help with your lawn contact AgroPro Lawn Care Services!