When snowfall and frigid air reach record levels in the North, many wish they could list their house and move to the Sunshine State. Of course, as a South Floridian, you know winters near the surf and sand can also get chilly, with some days breaking even with states in colder climates.
Preparing your lawn for the winter is slightly different in South Florida than elsewhere. Unlike winterizing in northern regions, the grass down South doesn’t go fully dormant — instead, you spend most of your time maintaining warm-season turf and protecting your yard from frost. To achieve this, following these six techniques for proper lawn maintenance is essential.
1.Mow to the Right Height
Lawn mower cutting green grass. Image via Unsplash.
The chilly morning air is often welcome after a long, hot summer with high humidity. However, you’ll want to avoid mowing your lawn too low as temperatures dip. Keeping your grass a bit taller ensures ongoing photosynthesis for a healthier-looking yard over time, promotes deeper root growth and builds resilience against drought, pests and diseases.
St. Augustine grass is most common throughout the state and should remain 3.5 to 4 inches during winter. Other recommended heights for South Florida turf include:
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Bahia: 3 to 4 inches
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Bermuda: 0.5 to 1.5 inches
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Centipede: 1.5 to 2 inches
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Dwarf St. Augustine: 2.5 inches
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Zoysia: 2 to 2.5 inches
2. Aerate the Lawn
Green grass sprouting from the soil. Image via Unsplash.
Aeration breaks up compacted soil by creating small holes. This technique aids airflow for water and nutrient absorption — critical as turf growth slows during winters.
In South Florida, lawn maintenance will continue during the cooler season, so you’ll want to ensure adequate root access. Likewise, aerating breaks up thatch — dead grass and organic matter. With this practice, your lawn will be at its healthiest by spring.
3. Provide Adequate Water
Sprinkler irrigating lawn. Image via Unsplash.
South Florida’s dry season is from October to May, with little rainfall to irrigate your lawn. During winter, you must irrigate with half an inch of water weekly to maintain the yard’s pristine condition.
When mowing your lawn to an appropriate height, apply water afterward to rehydrate and encourage faster regrowth. Watering before you mow will keep the turf pliable but firm, which is better for protecting your mower blades.
4. Apply Nutrient-Rich Fertilizer
Dewy grass in sunlight. Image via Unsplash.
A nutrient-rich, slow-release fertilizer is best applied before winter for a healthy, lush lawn in the spring — however, the product’s ingredients matter. You’ll want to avoid fertilizers with high phosphorus concentrations, such as typical commercial brands.
Although the Everglades naturally have low phosphorus content, unsustainable agricultural activity and fertilizer runoff have significantly compromised its water quality and wildlife. Excess phosphorus frequently causes harmful algal blooms and depletes the wetland of oxygen. Fertilizers should contain phosphoric acid — a water-soluble material with better nutrient uptake and less impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Also, always read product labels and look for a capital “F” before the license number. Florida law requires the letter to appear on all fertilizer packages and containers for sale in the state. This highlights the composition of the mixture, allowing you to choose more sustainable, organic alternatives.
5. Control Pests, Weeds and Diseases Naturally
Bugs sitting on a green plant. Image via Unsplash.
Mild winters create the perfect environment for pest infestations, weeds and fungal diseases. For example, chinch bugs, white grubs, armyworms and sod webworms cause everything from brown patches to poor growth recovery. Many fungi also prefer South Florida’s warm, humid winters.
Surprisingly, a 2021 Consumer Reports showed 50% of lawn owners avoid using pesticides and fertilizers altogether. Identifying the issue early before the damage spirals out of control is key. A targeted approach to treating your lawn with more organic solutions — such as neem oil — is best, helping to reduce the need for harsh chemical products.
6. Decrease Foot Traffic
Two boys playing in the grass. Image via Unsplash.
One of the simplest ways to protect your South Florida lawn in the wintertime is to limit foot traffic. Walk on the sidewalk, driveway or walking paths rather than cut across the yard to the front door.
Walking on grass, especially when slow-growing, can compact the soil and restrict air and water movement. This can lead to poor root resilience and nutrient deficiencies. Give your turf time to recuperate before the growing season kicks into full gear.
Maintain Healthy Grass All Winter Long
Protecting your South Florida lawn for winter is not difficult but requires ongoing maintenance. However, when you apply these techniques, you will reap the rewards of a stunning green blanket of grass and excellent curb appeal.