Winter can be tough on your lawn, but with a little planning, you can avoid common mistakes that might harm your grass.
Here are 7 of the most frequent errors homeowners make during the snowy season—and how you can avoid them.
1. Over-Fertilizing in Late Fall
It might seem like a good idea to feed your lawn before winter, but using too much fertilizer late in the season can do more harm than good.
Extra fertilizer can encourage growth at the wrong time, making your lawn more vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Instead, use a slow-release winter fertilizer in early fall to help your grass store nutrients for the cold months.
2. Not Raking Leaves Before the Snow
Leaving piles of leaves on your lawn may seem harmless, but they can trap moisture and block sunlight.
This creates the perfect environment for snow mold and other lawn diseases. Make sure to rake up leaves before the first snowfall to keep your lawn healthy.
3. Ignoring Bare Patches
Bare spots in your lawn can worsen over the winter if left untreated. Ice, snow, and foot traffic can compact the soil, making it harder for grass to grow back in the spring.
Overseed those areas in the fall so new grass can start growing before winter arrives.
4. Using the Wrong Deicing Products
Rock salt and harsh deicers may keep your driveway safe, but they can damage your lawn if they spill onto the grass.
Look for lawn-friendly deicing products or try using sand for traction instead. If salt does get on your lawn, rinse the area with water as soon as the snow melts.
5. Walking on Frozen Grass
Walking on frosty or snow-covered grass can crush the blades and damage the roots. Over time, this creates weak spots in your lawn.
Try to stick to cleared paths, and avoid creating shortcuts across your yard.
6. Letting Snow Piles Build Up in One Spot
Shoveling snow into large piles on your lawn might seem convenient, but it can smother the grass and compact the soil.
Spread the snow out evenly across your yard when possible to prevent damage.
7. Forgetting to Clean Up Lawn Debris
Branches, toys, or other debris left on the grass can freeze to the lawn and leave bare patches when the snow melts.
Before winter hits, do a final sweep of your yard to pick up anything that doesn’t belong.
By avoiding these simple mistakes, you’ll help your lawn survive the winter and bounce back strong in the spring. A little care now can make a big difference later!
