The weather may be getting cooler, but don’t put away your gardening gloves just yet. While it might seem like everything is winding down, your grass is actually gearing up for next year.

A lush, green lawn might be the last thing on your mind when fall rolls around, but giving your grass some attention before winter sets in can set you up for an easier, greener spring. In fact, fall is one of the best times to care for your lawn. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall help grass recover from summer stress and build strength before going dormant. With a little effort now, you’ll be setting the stage for a healthier, greener lawn come spring.

Gradually Lower the Mowing Height

As the growing season winds down, keep mowing until the grass stops growing, but adjust your mower to gradually lower the blade. By your last mow, aim for a height of around 2 to 2.5 inches. This helps prevent matting under snow and reduces the risk of disease, while still leaving enough leaf surface to support root health.

Rake Up Those Leaves

Fallen leaves might look picturesque, but leaving them on the ground can do more harm than good. A thick layer will block sunlight, trap moisture, and eventually suffocate the grass. Rake them up regularly or, better yet, mulch them with your mower. Mulched leaves feed your soil with organic matter and reduce the need for bagging or disposal.

Fertilize to Promote Strong Roots

Fall is one of the most important times to fertilize your lawn, as grass focuses more on root growth than leaf production. Choose a slow-release, nitrogen-rich formula and apply it when grass is still actively growing, usually in early to mid-fall. This boosts root development and will help your lawn bounce back quickly once spring returns.

Overseed for Optimum Results

If your lawn has thin patches or bare spots, then fall is the perfect time to overseed, as the warm soil and cool air create ideal germination conditions. Spread grass seed over raked soil and keep it moist while it establishes. This not only thickens your turf but also helps crowd out weeds in the spring.

Fight Soil Compaction with Aeration

After a summer of foot traffic and dry weather, your lawn’s soil may be compacted, making it tough for roots to absorb water and nutrients. Aerating is a great way to improve air flow and drainage. It’s especially helpful when combined with overseeding, giving roots room to grow and thrive.

Keep Watering If Needed

Even though it’s cooler out, your lawn still needs water until it goes fully dormant. Fall rain often helps, but if conditions stay dry, continue watering once or twice a week. This is especially important for newly seeded areas. Aim for about an inch of water weekly.

Wage One Last War Against Weeds

Fall is a smart time to tackle persistent weeds like dandelions, when they are storing energy in their roots, making herbicide treatments more effective. Pull them up by hand or use a selective weed killer on a mild, dry day. Eliminating weeds now means fewer surprises and less work when everything wakes up in the spring.

Continuing to care for your lawn in the fall will keep your yard looking tidy and lay the foundation for a healthy, vibrant lawn next year. A bit of effort now will pay off with less work and greener grass come next year.