Blog The Ultimate Snow-Care Checklist: Preparing Your Lawn for Winter's Embrace Jun 19, 2025

Winter is around the corner, and as temperatures begin to drop, it's crucial to think about preparing your lawn for the harsh season ahead. At LB's Lawn and Snow, LLC, we understand that ensuring your lawn thrives even under a blanket of snow requires strategic snow-care practices. Here's a comprehensive checklist to get your lawn winter-ready.

First, it's important to mow your lawn one last time before the first snow falls. Set your mower to a lower height for the final cut. Shorter grass reduces the risk of snow mold, a fungal disease that occurs when grass is left too long under snow cover. Maintaining a lawn of about two inches is ideal.

Next, focus on aeration. Aerating your lawn before the winter can help alleviate soil compaction. It allows essential nutrients and water to penetrate deeper, supporting grass roots even in colder months. Lawn aeration is particularly effective in conjunction with fertilization, providing your grass the strength it needs to survive through winter and flourish in spring.

Fertilization is another crucial step in winter lawn care. Using a winter-specific fertilizer provides the lawn with essential nutrients that will be stored and used once the temperatures warm up. A slow-release nitrogen fertilizer is perfect for this task. It promotes root growth and offers your lawn an early green-up in the spring.

Remove debris such as leaves, twigs, or other organic matter from your lawn before snow sets in. Accumulated debris can smother your grass, leading to bare spots when the snow melts. A thorough rake ensures your lawn is free from potential threats that could hinder its growth cycle.

Don't overlook the importance of controlling winter weeds. As temperatures drop, some weeds become dormant, while others persist. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide can prevent unsightly weeds from appearing amidst the snow and can significantly reduce your workload come spring.

Invest in effective drainage solutions. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging beneath snow, which can lead to turf diseases. At LB's Lawn and Snow, LLC, we advise clients to examine their lawn’s drainage system and make necessary adjustments, such as installing additional drainage channels or ensuring existing ones are clear.

Mulching flower beds and garden areas around your property can offer several winter benefits. A layer of mulch insulates plant roots, minimizing freeze damage, and retaining moisture for better plant health.

For properties in particularly snowy areas, planning for snow removal is also part of good winter lawn care. Knowing where and how snow will be removed ensures it doesn’t damage emerging spring lawns. Strategically pile snow in less viewable areas and avoid placing it over flower beds where the weight could cause damage.

Finally, reinforce pathways and walkways. Winter can be unpredictable, and having clear, treated paths ensure safety for both family and guests navigating your yard.

With these essential steps, your lawn will emerge from winter healthy and resilient, ready to spring back to life. Getting a head start on winterizing your lawn is an investment in a lush, full landscape for the coming year. For any snow-care needs this winter, remember that experts at LB's Lawn and Snow, LLC are just a call away, providing tailored services to preserve and protect your lawn all winter long.