The Fall Lawn Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before the First Frost
The Fall Lawn Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before the First Frost
Fall in Northern New Jersey means cooler mornings, changing leaves and, eventually, that first hard frost. Before winter settles in, a little work around the yard can make a big difference in how your lawn looks next spring—and how your equipment performs when you need it again.Before you trade the mower for the snow thrower, here are 10 things worth checking off your list.
1. Keep Mowing
The calendar may say fall, but your grass doesn't care. As long as it's actively growing, keep mowing. Avoid letting the lawn become excessively tall going into winter, but don't scalp it, either. Continue following the recommended mowing height for your grass type until growth slows.
2. Stay Ahead of the Leaves
A few leaves aren't a problem. A thick, wet blanket of them can be. Heavy leaf cover blocks sunlight and traps moisture against the turf. Mulch manageable amounts with your mower, or remove heavier accumulations with a blower, bagger or lawn vacuum.
3. Give the Lawn Some Air
Compacted soil makes it harder for water, oxygen and nutrients to reach the root zone. Fall can be an excellent time to core-aerate cool-season lawns, particularly in high-traffic areas.
4. Overseed Thin Areas
Cooler temperatures and warm soil make early fall a favorable time for establishing many cool-season grasses. Bare or thinning areas can benefit from overseeding—but timing matters. New grass needs enough time to establish before freezing temperatures arrive.
5. Feed the Lawn
Fall fertilization can help support root development and prepare turf for winter. Don't simply grab a bag and start spreading, though. The right fertilizer and application rate depend on your lawn and soil conditions.
6. Sharpen Your Mower Blade
If you've spent all summer mowing, there's a good chance your blade isn't as sharp as it was in April. A dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it cleanly. Fall is a great time to sharpen or replace it so you're ready for next season.
7. Clean the Mower Deck
Grass clippings, dirt and moisture packed beneath a mower deck can encourage corrosion. Before putting the mower away, remove accumulated debris and inspect the deck, belts and blades for wear or damage.
8. Think About Fuel
Don't park gas-powered equipment for several months without considering what's in the tank. Old fuel is one of the most common causes of small-engine headaches. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for storage, including whether fuel should be treated, removed or run down.
9. Take Care of Your Batteries
Cold temperatures and months of inactivity can be hard on batteries. Check the recommended storage and charging procedure for your lawn tractor, mower and battery-powered equipment. Different battery technologies have different storage requirements.
10. Get the Winter Equipment Ready Now
Finally, don't wait for snow to discover that your snow thrower won't start. Pull it out, inspect it and run it before winter arrives. Check the belts, scraper bar, skid shoes, shear pins and fuel system—and make sure you remember where you put the owner's manual.
A Little Work Now Pays Off in Spring
Fall yard work isn't just about putting another mowing season to bed. It's your opportunity to protect the lawn, catch equipment problems early and make the transition into winter a whole lot easier.And when the first warm days return next spring, you'll be glad you did the work now.
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