When lawns go dormant in winter, it’s easy to assume there’s nothing to do until spring. In reality, late winter is one of the most important times to set your lawn up for success once warmer weather arrives.
A little attention now can prevent common spring problems like thin turf, weeds, and uneven growth.
Avoid Heavy Traffic on Dormant Grass
Dormant grass may look tough, but it’s surprisingly vulnerable. Repeated foot traffic or parking on the lawn can compact soil and damage grass crowns, especially when the ground is wet or frozen.
Tip:
Try to keep regular foot paths consistent and avoid unnecessary traffic across the lawn until active growth resumes.
Clean Up Debris Before Spring Growth Starts
Leaves, sticks, and winter debris left on the lawn can smother grass and trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for disease.
Late winter is a great time to:
- Remove leftover leaves
- Clear fallen branches
- Lightly rake matted areas (without aggressive dethatching)
This allows sunlight and air to reach the turf as temperatures begin to rise.
Watch for Early Weed Growth
Many common lawn weeds begin germinating before spring officially arrives. If weeds get established early, they’re harder to control later.
While herbicide timing varies by grass type and region, late winter is the right time to:
- Identify problem areas
- Plan pre-emergent applications
- Address bare spots where weeds are likely to move in
Hold Off on Fertilizer—for Now
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is fertilizing too early. Feeding dormant grass can encourage weak top growth and waste nutrients.
Instead:
- Wait until soil temperatures consistently warm
- Focus on preparation, not growth
- Let the lawn wake up naturally
- Then contat us here
Start Planning for Spring Services
Late winter is the perfect time to schedule:
- Spring cleanups
- Soil treatments
- Mowing service start dates
- Aeration or overseeding (if needed)
Planning early helps ensure availability and allows services to be timed correctly for your lawn type.
Set Your Lawn Up for a Strong Spring
Healthy lawns don’t happen overnight. They’re the result of consistent care and good timing, and late winter is where that process begins.
At Simply Lawns & Landscapes, we help homeowners transition smoothly from winter dormancy into a healthy, green growing season with thoughtful, professional lawn care.
If you have questions about your lawn or want to prepare for spring, now is the perfect time to start the conversation.