As temperatures drop and days grow shorter, your lawn needs extra attention to stay healthy through the colder months. Taking time now to prepare your yard will ensure it bounces back lush and green when spring arrives. Here are expert fall and winter lawn care tips from Absolute Landscapes to help homeowners in Howard County, Maryland protect their lawns.
1. Keep Mowing, But Adjust the Height
Don’t put the mower away just yet. Keep mowing until your grass stops growing, usually late October or early November in Howard County. In fall, gradually lower your mower blade so your lawn is trimmed shorter before winter.
- Final mowing height: 2.5–3 inches for most cool-season grasses in our region
- Keep mower blades sharp for a clean cut
- Avoid cutting too low to prevent stress
- Irrigate if drought conditions persist
Shorter, well-cut grass reduces disease risk and prevents matting under snow.
2. Rake and Remove Leaves Regularly
Fallen leaves may look beautiful, but they can smother your lawn if left in piles. Leaves block sunlight and trap moisture, which can lead to mold and bare patches in spring. Rake or mulch weekly to protect grass health and keep your yard tidy.
3. Aerate Your Lawn
Compacted soil keeps water, air, and nutrients from reaching grass roots. Fall aeration relieves compaction and encourages stronger root growth before winter. This is especially important in Howard County’s clay-heavy soil or in lawns with heavy foot traffic.
4. Fertilize for Winter Resilience
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in October or early November to give your grass the nutrients it needs to store energy. A fall feeding strengthens roots, improves cold tolerance, and leads to earlier, thicker growth when spring returns.
Tip: Have your soil tested every 1–2 years to ensure the right pH (around 6.8) and nutrient balance.
5. Overseed Bare or Thin Spots
Fall is the best season to overseed patchy areas. Cool temperatures and consistent moisture create ideal conditions for new seed to germinate. Combine overseeding with aeration for a thicker, more vibrant lawn come spring.
6. Water Until the Ground Freezes
Many homeowners shut off sprinklers too early. Grass still needs moisture in the fall, especially after overseeding or fertilizing. Keep watering until the ground freezes so roots stay well-hydrated through winter.
7. Clean and Store Lawn Equipment
After your final mow, clean and service your lawn mower, trimmer, and other equipment. Proper storage keeps tools in top condition for spring. This is also the perfect time to schedule professional irrigation system maintenance.
Get Your Lawn Ready with Absolute Landscapes
Prepping your lawn for fall and winter takes time and expertise—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Absolute Landscapes, we specialize in year-round lawn and landscape care in Howard County, Maryland. From aeration and overseeding to leaf removal and winterization, our team makes sure your yard thrives.
🍂 Want a lawn that looks amazing this spring? Contact Absolute Landscapes today to schedule your fall lawn services in Howard County.
FAQ: Fall & Winter Lawn Care in Howard County
When should I stop mowing my lawn in Maryland?
Keep mowing until the grass stops growing, usually late October or early November in Howard County.
Do I need to fertilize my lawn in the fall?
Yes! Fall fertilization strengthens roots and ensures your lawn comes back greener in spring.
Is aeration necessary every year?
If your soil is clay-heavy or compacted from foot traffic, annual aeration is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy lawn.
Can I skip raking leaves and just leave them?
Not recommended. A thick blanket of leaves suffocates grass and encourages disease. Mulch or remove them weekly.
What grass seed works best for Maryland lawns?
Cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass perform best when overseeded in fall.