How to Keep Your Grass Healthy in Winter in Cincinnati

The Cincinnati winter can be brutal on lawns, leaving many homeowners with brown, patchy grass come spring. If you’ve struggled with bare spots, winter mold or grass that just won’t bounce back in the spring, you’re not alone. With the right lawncare and maintenance steps, you can protect your lawn from winter damage and set it up for success when the snow melts. In this article, we explain how to keep grass healthy in the winter.

Prep Your Lawn in the Fall

Late October to Early November

If you’ve been asking yourself, “How do I keep my grass healthy in the winter?” you might be surprised to learn that the secret lies in what you do before winter even arrives.

The key to a healthy lawn in winter starts with fall preparation. Fertilize your lawn before the first frost to ensure your grass roots are strong enough to withstand the cold. 

In Cincinnati’s Zone 6b climate, aim to apply a winterizing fertilizer in late October or early November. This will help your lawn store nutrients that it can use throughout the winter.

Aerate Your Lawn

Early to Mid-October

Aerating your lawn before winter helps reduce soil compaction and allows air, water and nutrients to reach deep into the roots. Cincinnati’s clay-rich soils are prone to compacting, so aeration is especially important here. Aerate your lawn in early to mid-October, giving your grass enough time to recover before winter sets in.

Overseed to Fill in Bare Spots

Late September to Mid-October

If your lawn has developed bare spots from summer wear and tear, overseeding in the fall can help ensure a thicker lawn come spring. For Cincinnati lawns, Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are great cool-season grasses that thrive in colder weather. 

Aim to overseed between late September and mid-October, which gives the new grass time to establish before the first frost.

Mow at the Right Height

Late October to Early November

Before the first frost, mow your lawn to about 2.5 to 3 inches tall. This height helps protect the grass from winter damage while reducing the chance of disease. 

Mowing too short can expose the roots to cold temperatures, and leaving it too long may invite mold growth under snow cover. Plan your final mow of the season in late October or early November, just before winter really takes hold. This will help keep your grass healthy in the winter season.

Rake Leaves Regularly

October through November

While it may be tempting to let fallen leaves blanket your lawn, they can block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to mold or rot. Rake and remove leaves regularly from October through November to keep the grass clear and allow it to breathe. Cincinnati’s winter rains can quickly turn leaf piles into a soggy mess, so don’t leave leaves sitting for too long, especially as you approach the end of November.

Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic

December through February

Grass can become fragile during the winter, so it’s important to limit foot traffic on your lawn during the colder months. Walking on frozen grass can cause the blades to break and may result in bare spots come spring. From December through February, try to avoid walking on your lawn as much as possible, especially when the grass is frosty or covered in snow.

Monitor Snow and Ice Buildup

December through February

While snow can insulate your lawn, heavy snow and ice can cause damage if it piles up too much. In Cincinnati, where we experience both snowfall and freezing rain, it’s important to keep an eye on ice buildup throughout winter, especially from December through February. If possible, regularly remove snow and ice in areas where it is possible and gently break up ice patches to prevent suffocation and rot.

Consider Professional Lawn Care

Anytime Before Winter Sets In

If winter lawn maintenance sounds daunting, hiring a professional landscaping company can ensure your grass gets the care it needs. Seasons Best Landscaping offers year-round services tailored to Cincinnati homeowners, including winter lawn care that will keep your yard healthy even during the toughest months.

Benefits of Professional Winter Lawn Care

• Customized treatment plans: Our lawn care experts understand the unique challenges of Cincinnati’s climate and can recommend the best treatments for your specific grass type and soil conditions.
• Fewer lawn issues in spring: Professional care during winter reduces the risk of snow mold, bare spots and other lawn issues, ensuring your grass comes back stronger in spring.
• Less work for you: Focus on enjoying the winter months, knowing your lawn is in good hands.

Keep Your Grass Healthy All Winter Long

Keeping your grass healthy during Cincinnati’s winter doesn’t have to be a challenge. By following these simple, well-timed tips, you can ensure your lawn stays strong and ready to thrive in the spring. 

And if you need expert help, don’t hesitate to contact Seasons Best Landscaping for winter lawn care services tailored to your property’s unique needs.