Many homeowners assume winter is a “dead zone” for lawn care — but what you do now can have a huge impact on how thick, green, and healthy your grass looks next spring. While growth slows down as temperatures drop, your lawn is still very much alive beneath the surface. Here are a few innovative ways to help it bounce back strong:
1. Keep It Clean
Before the snow flies, clear your yard of leaves, sticks, and debris. A thick layer of leaves or clutter can suffocate your grass, create mold, and attract pests during the dormant months.
2. Aerate and Fertilize (Before the Freeze)
Late fall to early winter is one of the best times to aerate and apply a slow-release fertilizer. Aeration opens up compacted soil, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach the roots, while fertilizer provides your lawn with the reserves it needs to survive winter and green up quickly come spring.
3. Avoid Heavy Traffic
Try not to park vehicles, store firewood, or walk in the same areas over the winter. Frozen turf can be fragile, compacted, or damaged grass will be slow to recover once temperatures warm up.
4. Watch for Snow Mold
If you’ve had issues with snow mold in the past, rake lightly once the snow melts to break up matted areas and allow air to circulate. This helps prevent gray patches or fungus from spreading.
5. Plan Your Early Spring Boost
As winter ends, your lawn will wake up hungry. Schedule your first spring treatment early, typically a pre-emergent and fertilizer combo to prevent weeds and jumpstart growth. Four Seasons Exterminating can help you create a customized plan tailored to your yard’s specific condition.
6. Apply Lime if Needed
If your soil is acidic (common in Michigan), winter is a great time to apply lime. It slowly adjusts the pH through the season, making nutrients more available when spring arrives. A soil test can tell you exactly what your lawn needs.
7. Overseed Bare Spots (Late Fall)
Before the first frost, overseed any thin or bare areas. Even though growth slows down, the seeds will stay dormant and germinate early in spring as temperatures rise, giving you a head start on a fuller lawn.
8. Maintain Equipment
Winter is the perfect time to service your mower, sharpen blades, and clean out your spreaders or sprayers. When spring hits, you’ll be ready to go without delays.
9. Protect Against Rodents
Keep an eye out for vole or mole tunnels under the snow. Rodents can chew through turf and roots during winter. You can place repellents or traps near problem areas before heavy snow sets in.
10. Plan Drainage Fixes
Take note of any low spots or pooling water before the ground freezes. Poor drainage can suffocate roots or cause ice damage. Winter gives you time to plan leveling or topdressing improvements for spring.
At Four Seasons Exterminating, we don’t stop caring for your property just because the season changes. Winter prep is one of the best ways to protect your investment year-round. Contact us today to schedule your early spring lawn treatment or to ask about our 2026 Lawn Care Program packages.