Winter might seem like a quiet time for lawn care, but taking a few simple steps can make a big difference in your lawn’s health in the spring. The University of Idaho Extension emphasizes the importance of winter lawn care, stating, “Proper maintenance during the winter months sets the foundation for a healthy and vibrant lawn come spring.”
Idaho winters put stress on lawns, which can lead to weakened grass and fungal issues. Here’s how to care for your lawn during winter so it stays strong, healthy, and ready for the growing season ahead.
One common winter disease in Idaho is snow mold, also known as snow rot. It occurs when snow, leaves, or other debris remain on the lawn for long periods of time during the winter. Snow mold thrives in damp, covered conditions, making debris left on your lawn a risk factor for spreading this disease. The longer your lawn is smothered, the more snow mold spreads, impacting the health of your lawn.
To help prevent snow mold, regularly rake up leaves and remove debris from your lawn. Piles of leaves and debris block sunlight and air circulation, trapping in excess moisture and creating ideal conditions for mold and fungus. Keeping your lawn clear lets it ‘breathe’ through the winter, reducing the risk of snow mold and other lawn issues.
Similarly, when clearing snow, avoid piling it onto grassy areas. Deep snow piles take longer to melt, trapping moisture and creating a favorable environment for mold growth. By keeping snow off your lawn, you help your grass stay healthy and reduce the risk of mold.
Lawns may seem tough, but they become fragile during their dormant stage in winter. Walking on frosted or snow-covered grass can damage the blades and weaken the lawn, making it more susceptible to issues in the spring.
To protect your lawn, keep driveways and sidewalks clear of ice and snow, so foot traffic stays off your lawn. This helps your lawn stay strong during dormancy and ready for spring.
Mowing your lawn in late fall plays a key role in preventing winter diseases like snow mold. In cooler months like fall and early spring, aim for a shorter height of 2.5 to 3 inches to help prevent disease. During summer, raise the mower to about 3.5 inches to withstand hot, dry conditions. This approach keeps the lawn short enough to resist disease while providing enough length to minimize stress during the winter.
If you have any questions about lawn care or need advice for lawn issues, we’re here to help. You can learn more about our lawn care services on our website or request an estimate for any service you’re interested in by clicking here. At Zing Services, we proudly serve commercial, residential, and HOA properties in Middleton, Star, and nearby areas throughout the Treasure Valley. Give us a call at 208-585-9400 to schedule any of our services and keep your lawn healthy and beautiful all year.
