With summer finally behind us, it’s time to wrap up the weekly mowing routine. Believe it or not, most people stop mowing way too soon. Mowing at the end of the fall season is one of the best ways to bring your hardy, green grass back next spring.
As long as the weather is above 50°F your grass will continue to grow. Once temperatures drop below that point is when it will stop growing. Typically this occurs late October/early November each year depending on what area of the country you live in. Continue mowing your lawn up until the frost hits even if it doesn’t look like it’s grown much since the last time you mowed. Keeping your turf even will help it remain healthy during the winter months.
See when your area is predicted to have the first frost of the season, then plan to mow your lawn two or three times before then, slowly reducing the blade’s height each time. To help you find out when the first frost is predicted, check out the Farmer’s Almanac.
How short should you cut grass once fall is over? What is the best grass height for winter? Ultimately, your lawn should be about 2 to 2 ½ inches high by the time winter arrives. Anything less will damage your lawn. You also don’t want it too tall as this promotes mold growth.
Many think that early spring is the only time to fertilize your lawn. Wrong. Fall is actually a preferred time to fertilize as it will help it retain its strength in the upcoming strenuous months. The morning dew will help the grass absorb the fertilizer which will lead to strong root development during the upcoming dormant months. Also, do not fertilize after the first frost. It’s best to fertilize 2-3 weeks before the first frost hits.
Trimming your turf right before winter helps keep it healthy throughout the colder months. This is also a great time of the year to upgrade your mower. Spartan Mowers builds the best mowers in the industry - and now that the mowing season is winding down there isn’t a better time to check out the amazing deals you will find at a dealer near you! Be sure to ask about our fall promotion which ends October 31. Come and test drive one and see the difference mowing with a Spartan makes!