While you may not spend much time enjoying your landscaping during the winter, the steps you take before snow arrives can make all the difference in ensuring a lush and vibrant lawn in the spring. Following a few best practices now will keep your landscaping healthy, even after it gets buried under a layer of snow.

Removing Leaves

Few landscaping chores are more closely associated with fall than raking leaves — and few are more important. If leaves and other debris are left on your lawn, they will trap moisture in place, particularly after a layer of snow settles on top of them. This can lead to fungal infections or even cause the grass to suffocate and die.

Though accumulated leaves could cause serious problems for your grass, adding them to your compost pile can provide a natural fertilizer later. Shredded leaves contain nutrients that will help your plants grow and make a fantastic addition to mulch.

Caring for Your Grass

Once the leaves have been removed, it’s time to prepare your grass for winter. Mow it to a height of just over an inch to prepare it for its dormant phase. This also prepares the lawn for aerating, which punches holes in the soil to allow more air and water to reach the grass roots. 

With the grass cut short, it is also easier to identify sparse areas where re-seeding may be necessary. A combination of fertilizer and overseeding will ensure that your lawn is green and healthy come spring. Use a rotary spreader to provide equal distribution and make this task easier.

Whether you are planning a patio installation or need fertilization services, you can count on Rossi Landscaping in Northfield, OH, to keep your yard looking beautiful. Serving Northeast Ohio for over 35 years, this family-owned and -operated company strives to form a personal connection with each household, making your satisfaction their top priority. To learn more about their landscaping services, visit them online or call (330) 467-2448.