Summer is gone and Winter is here! We have seen winter storms, ice, cold temperatures, and snowfall for the past month. You might be wondering how this weather has been impacting your lawn and plants. Don’t jump to conclusions! Here we have laid out and explained 5 misconceptions about your lawn in the winter months.
Myth 1: “One of the greatest things about the colder months is that there is no need for lawn care.”
This statement is one of the biggest misconceptions about your lawn in the fall to winter months. When fall and winter seasons arrive, this is the time of year when people stay the most busy, with a variety of different tasks and things to do. From cleaning up debris and leaves to sprucing landscape beds, removing old mulch, and pruning, there is always something to do with your lawn, even with this cold weather.
If you want to have a lush green lawn when spring comes around, it is very important you give your lawn the attention it deserves during this cold season. Discover important winterizing instructions.
Myth 2: Plants die in the cold and winter months.
This is not true! While you may not see any active growth, the plants are not dead. The late fall and cold winter season is known as the dormant period. You cannot see the life, but they are just hibernating, getting ready for spring. For example, when a plant like grass reaches a certain temperature, varieties of grass may stop producing new blades. So don’t be afraid to cut your grasses back, pruning those bushes and hedges and it will show off your hard work in the spring.
Myth 3: I should only fertilize my lawn in the spring.
This is the exact opposite of what you want to do. The best time to seed and fertilize your lawn is during the fall and winter months before the snow. By laying down new seeds during the pre-dormant period of a grass’s cycle, you can be assured the seeds will be ready for spring. This is the best way to keep your lawn lush and green all season.
Myth 4: Late snow fall in spring months will cause all my plants to die.
Even when snow is falling in February and March, late-season snow should not concern you! Generally, the snow will not cause any harm unless spring has arrived and blooming is in effect. It may help your plants survive! For example, if temperatures drop dramatically after or during a storm, the snow covering the plant will insulate it and help protect it from the cold. So don’t fear the snow just yet, we might not like the cold, but spring is around the corner.
Myth 5: Once a plant is damaged, there is no going back.
Wait! Before you take out the plant or prune what looks to be damaged wood, be sure that it is dead. Even dead-looking plants may still be alive. The best way to determine if a plant is dead or not is to wait until the spring and see if it starts new growth. If you can’t wait, check the plant tissue with a small knife to see if the tissue is green or brown. Some plants take a long time before showing growth, so be patient.
In conclusion, the cold winter months won’t destroy your yard. The snow helps your lawn survive, and the plants are made to hibernate in the harsh cold.
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