10 Tips for Southern Lawncare in the Winter

In our region of the country, we are fortunate to enjoy milder temperatures throughout the winter. But it is still important to pay special attention to your yard during this time of year!

Here are several ways the Greenery teams are taking care of our residential customers’ lawns this winter:

    1. Mowing:

    • Continue mowing the lawn as needed but adjust the height of the mower to accommodate the slowing growth of the grass.
    • Keep the grass at a slightly taller height to provide more insulation for the roots.

    2. Pruning:

    • Assess and prune shrubs on the property, as needed. We work carefully to not prune too much from your plants, which can damage them if done in excess.
    • Pruning or thinning ornamental grasses helps to encourage new horticultural growth.

    3. Checking Irrigation:

    • We are checking your irrigation systems to ensure they are in top-notch shape before the rainy spring season.

    4. Fertilization:

    • Apply a winter or fall fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content to promote root growth rather than top growth. This helps the grass become more resilient to stress and diseases.

    5. Weed Control:

    • Winter is a good time to control weeds. Apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
    • Spot-treat any existing weeds with a selective herbicide if necessary.

    6. Aeration:

    • If your lawn has compacted soil, consider aerating it during the winter months. This helps improve air, water, and nutrient penetration to the roots.

    7. Mulching:

    • Apply a thin layer of mulch around trees and shrubs to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperatures.

    8. Disease Prevention:

    • Keep an eye out for signs of lawn diseases, as some fungal infections can occur even in milder winter weather. If you notice any issues, consult with a local garden center for appropriate fungicides.

    9. Overseeding (if needed):

    • In some Southern regions, overseeding warm-season grasses with cool-season grasses may be done for a green lawn during the winter. Check with local experts to determine if this is suitable for your area.

    10. Protect Sensitive Plants:

    • If your region occasionally experiences frost, protect sensitive plants from extreme cold by covering them with frost cloth or burlap.

    Remember, the specifics of off-season lawn care can vary depending on the exact location within the southern region, the specific grass type, and local climate conditions. It’s always a good idea to consult with lawn care experts for advice.

    For more tips about caring for your yard this season and other info, follow The Greenery Garden Center on Facebook and Instagram at @GreeneryIncGardenCenter. 

    Fabulous garden center! What a treat to have found you while visiting Hilton Head. Everyone was so kind and helpful. ♡

    Nancy W.

    Sign Up For Our newsletter