The Best Winter Lawn Care Practices for Fescue Lawns
Fescue lawns are a popular choice among Georgia homeowners, known for their dark green appearance and adaptability to the local climate. This cool-season grass halts top growth during the winter months but the roots continue to grow so they still require care to ensure they emerge healthy and strong come spring. At AgroPro Lawncare Specialists, we believe that a little winter care can go a long way. Here are our top practices to keep your fescue lawn in tip-top shape this winter.
Mowing
Even as temperatures drop, it's important to keep your fescue lawn well-mowed. Aim to lower your mowing height slightly in late fall, usually around 2.5 to 3 inches. Mow your lawn every three to five days until the temperature drops to 32 degrees Fahrenheit consistently or the grass stops growing. These mowing practices help prevent winter weeds like poa annua and allows sunlight to penetrate the grass more effectively during the winter months, giving your fescue grass has the best chance for a strong, healthy spring.
Aeration
Aerating your lawn in late fall can significantly benefit your fescue grass. Aeration helps alleviate soil compaction, improves water absorption, and enhances root growth. This practice allows your lawn to breathe, leading to healthier grass come spring. If you missed aeration in the fall, consider doing it early in winter if it is one of Georgia's milder winters and conditions allow.
Winter Fertilization
Applying a winter fertilizer can give your fescue lawn a nutrient boost. Look for a slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen, which can promote root health and prepare your lawn for the growing season. Aim to fertilize in late fall or early winter to allow the nutrients to be absorbed before the colder temperatures arrive, come January.
Weed Control
Winter is a good time to manage weeds that may invade your fescue lawn. Mowing and hand-pulling are the best methods while the temperatures continue to drop. Applying a post-emergent herbicide in late winter on established fescue lawns can help with winter annual weeds. Be sure to choose a product that's meant for fescue and apply when weather conditions are favorable.
Watering
Even in winter, fescue lawns may require watering because cool-season grasses do not necessarily go dormant. Monitor your lawn for signs of dryness and ensure it's receiving adequate moisture. A general rule of thumb is to water deeply but infrequently—about 1 inch of water per week is ideal. Make sure to water on milder days when there is no chance of an overnight freeze.
Plan for Spring
Winter is also an ideal time to plan for your spring lawn care regimen. Consider overseeding in early spring to thicken your fescue lawn or look into additional treatments that may be necessary based on your lawn's condition. Keeping track of what worked well in the past can help guide your decisions.
By following these practices, you'll set your lawn up for success when warmer weather returns. If you have any questions or need assistance with winter lawn care, don't hesitate to reach out to AgroPro Lawn Care Specialists. We're here to help your lawn thrive during Georgia's winter months!
