Kansas, with its unique climate, requires a thoughtful approach to lawn care, especially during the challenging winter season. As the temperatures drop, the lawn that you've nurtured through spring, summer, and fall now needs a different kind of attention. Here are some tips to help you protect your lawn during the frosty Kansas winter.
Pre-Winter Preparation
Before the first frost arrives, give your lawn a good, thorough mowing — but not too short. A height of about 2.5 to 3 inches is ideal. This prevents the grass from matting under heavy snow, which could lead to lawn diseases like snow mold.
Fertilize
Early winter is a great time to fertilize your lawn in Kansas. A late application of a slow-release granular 13-25-12 fertilizer will feed your grass roots all winter long. The numbers represent the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, respectively — all of which are vital nutrients for your lawn.
Limit Traffic
During winter, grass in Kansas is more susceptible to damage. Limit foot traffic on your lawn as much as possible to prevent unnecessary strain. Also, be mindful of where you pile snow after shoveling; heavy piles can smother the grass underneath and create bare patches come spring.
Regularly Clear Snow
It's important to clear snow off your lawn regularly, but avoid using salt or chemical de-icers, which can harm the grass. Instead, use sand or non-clumping kitty litter to provide traction on icy patches.
Monitor for Pests and Disease
While many pests die off in the winter, some can survive in the cold Kansas climate. Continue to monitor your lawn for signs of pests or disea
se, even during the winter months, and treat as necessary.
Plan for Spring
Winter is the perfect time to plan for spring lawn care. Consider having a soil test done to determine the pH and nutrient availability in your soil. This will help you plan your fertilizing and treatment schedule for the upcoming growing season.
In conclusion, even though your lawn goes dormant during the winter months, it doesn't mean you should ignore it. With these winter lawn care tips, you can help ensure your Kansas lawn will be lush, green, and healthy when spring arrives. Remember, lawn care is a year-round endeavor, and a little winter maintenance can go a long way.