Albuquerque Winter Lawn Fertilizing Tips
In most parts of the country, lawn grass goes dormant in winter. In southern climates it may be overseeded with a cool-season turf to maintain greenness until warmer weather returns. In the north, there isn’t that luxury. However in Albuquerque winter doesn’t mean our lawn care efforts cease. Try these tricks to ensure the best results:
Adding Fertilizer: For easiest application, apply fertilizer with a spreader. Think of it like operating a trigger, and as you move the machine back and forth over the grass, grip the handle and it will release pellets when you “fire.”
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the fertilizer package. Different brands may have different application requirements. Make sure you only apply the recommended amount because you can burn your grass if you add too much.
Aerate Your Lawn: To keep the grass greener, make holes with a fork or spade. You can also rent an electric aerator if you have a large area to cover – but be careful not damage any underground roots!
Spread Cool Weather Grass Seed: Sow Cool Weather Grass Seed or similar types, such as fescues, so there will be no clumps later. Follow the same directions as in the fertilizer application process and try spreading evenly so there is no waste.
More Tips for Winter
If you want your lawn to be healthy and safe, it’s important not to leave things like toys out on the grass and to clean up any debris. These things can smother precious blades of green in their wake, while also inviting insects that will eat away at any tender shoots emerging from beneath them.
Lower mower height by a notch during the last couple of mows. Long grass can smother itself and become prone to disease. It’s also inviting for pests like mice who might come looking for easier prey!
Be aware of traffic. Under snow or exposed to the elements, dormant grass will tolerate a moderate amount but if you’re running into problems with compaction in springtime, then it might be worth considering removing little pieces here and there until things improve.
Just remember that turf is very resilient and can withstand extreme winter conditions, but certain conditions can be harmful in the long term. It might be wise to chip away a piece of little-exposed ice in a low spot if a deep freeze or winter storm is on its way.
Make sure you have a plan for winter! Winter can be unpredictable and may put your lawn through some extreme conditions during the season. The best thing to do is make sure that it’s hardened off, once you’ve “put the lawn to bed” properly for the winter, then you can focus on keeping your sidewalks clear and building snowmen. Just remember to keep vigilant as far as the weather goes.