It is tempting to overlook lawn care during the winter because the plants are usually dormant. Though chilly weather and snow make it hard to think about your lawn, it is important to take steps to protect the plants so they are ready for their comeback in the spring.
Cut the grass short
In the late fall or early winter months (before the snow comes), cut the grass very short. Long grass not only looks unsightly when the cold turns it brown, but also the pressure from snow can cause the grass to fold over. As a result, water remains trapped, providing the perfect environment for mold growth in late winter and early spring.
Cut dead plant material away
During the colder months, plants gradually yellow and brown in certain areas. Though it is not a good idea to prune the plant during the winter, it is appropriate to cut away any dead wood or plant material.
Look for signs that the plant is dead in that spot. For example, the leaves may be brown or starting to wither. Cut away only the parts of the plant showing signs of decay, not portions that are green or yellow. As a rule, avoid pruning in the winter, as it causes growth that may damage the plant if it occurs during the winter months.
Remove snow
Heavy snowfall can damage plants by causing them to bend or break from additional weight and pressure. It is best to remove snow from most of the plants in your yard, especially the more fragile varieties.
Gently brush the snow off in an upward direction, but do not force it if there is ice. Soft movements will remove any powdery snow and can help reduce the amount of weight that builds up on the plant. Do not worry about the grass. In most cases, grass will be fine as long as it was cut short before the snowfall occurred.
Water the plants
If it is not raining or snowing, then it is still necessary to water your plants. Plan to water at least once every two weeks, though you may need to increase the frequency if there is no precipitation.
The winter months are not a time to forgo lawn care, but you won’t have to put in too much work in the cold. Cutting away dead wood, giving the plants water and protecting against mold growth will yield a beautiful yard come spring.
Post Author: andyc.
