What Are the Most Damaging Winter Lawn Care Mistakes?

1. Cutting Grass Too Short

Cutting grass blades too short can be problematic. Different grass species have different length requirements to ensure healthy growth. If you're uncertain which grass type you have or its ideal length, it's best to follow the lawn care best practices and keep the blades between two and three inches long. Cutting the lawn lower than that leaves the yard vulnerable to snow mold. 

2. Leaving Dead Leaves on the Lawn

With so many trees shedding their leaves in the fall, raking the fallen leaves might seem like an unnecessary task. However, it would be best if you didn't leave the leaves on your grass all winter. Sunlight is limited during the winter, but your lawn continues craving warmth and sunlight in colder weather. The plants won't receive enough sunlight if you don't rake the leaves off your grass. In the spring, the lawn will likely develop patchy areas. 

3. Ignoring Pest Problems

Though some insects seek shelter in the winter, it's not best not to ignore a critter issue just because colder temperatures are approaching. Common lawn pests in Ohio include grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms. Take action immediately if you notice a pest issue on your property's grass, plants, or trees before winter. Otherwise, the critters can wreak havoc on your plants and possibly spread into your home. Contact a pest control company for a viable solution at the first sign of a lawn pest problem. 

4. Making Snow Paths

After a snowfall, you might consider making a path in the snow for your children or pets to walk and play. However, letting them run all over the lawn is better than making a discernable path because the yard's soil will compact if it gets too much foot traffic. Oxygen has difficulty infiltrating compacted soil, which can lead to oxygen deprivation in plant roots.