Winter Lawn and Mower Care

As winter approaches, lawn growth slows dramatically

Cool-season grasses (common in northern US, Europe, Canada, etc.) go dormant and turn brown, conserving energy until spring.

Warm-season grasses (common in southern US, Mediterranean, Australia, NZ) also turn brown as weather cools.

Because of these differences, winter care depends on your grass type and climate. Below are tips for each type and region, plus mower maintenance for the off-season.

Key takeaway: Want to know your type of grass in your area? Click👉Global Lawn Grass Guide:Best Types for Your Climate

Cool-Season Grasses

Cool-season lawns (e.g. bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass) thrive in cooler climates. In winter they enter dormancy.

Key care steps include:

Autumn feeding:

Apply a late-season fertilizer (high in potassium, low in nitrogen) about once in fall. This strengthens roots and disease resistance before winter.

Last mowing:

Mow the lawn one final time in late autumn, keeping grass at a moderate height. Cut it a bit shorter than summer, for instance, 2–2.5 inches to prevent snow mold. Avoid mowing once frosts are set in.

Leaf and debris removal:

Rake fallen leaves and debris off the lawn to prevent smothering and fungal growth under snow.

Source: https://www.cuttingthegreen.net/services/leaf-removal

Minimize traffic:

Avoid walking or placing heavy objects on frozen or frosty grass, as cold, brittle blades can be damaged.

With these steps, cool-season lawns stay strong under snow or frost. They will green up again in spring.

Warm-Season Grasses

Warm-season lawns (e.g. Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Couch, Kikuyu) flourish in summer heat. In winter, they naturally go brown rather than grow. Winter care for warm-season grasses usually involves reducing inputs:

Reduce watering:

Cut back irrigation as soon as growth slows. These grasses need roughly half or less of their summer water when days shorten. Overwatering cool, moist turf invites diseases like large patch or root rot.

Raise mowing height:

Mow less often late in the season and set the deck higher than usual. Taller grass blades and deeper roots are better insulated against cold.

End fertilization:

Apply your last fertilizer (especially nitrogen) about 4–6 weeks before the first hard freeze. After that, do not fertilize, as new growth could be damaged by cold.

Weed control:

As warm-season turf slows, cool-season weeds (like chickweed, henbit) can spread. Treat or hand-pull weeds in fall to minimize spring infestations.

Source: https://www.cuttingthegreen.net/services/leaf-removal

Optional overseeding:

If you want a green lawn in winter, consider overseeding Bermuda or Zoysia with a short-lived ryegrass in autumn. Keep the new grass watered until it’s established; it will fade in spring, letting the warm-season grass return.

In winter, warm-season lawns will appear brown or patchy. Focus on gentle care and protection; they will "wake up" when warm weather returns.

Source: schoolipm.tamu.edu

Mower Care for Winter

Tips For All Types of Mowers

1. Give It a Final Clean-Up

Clean all grass clippings, dirt, and dust build up in surprising places. Take a few minutes to brush everything off, especially around the wheels, blades, and vents.

Tip for robotic mowers: stick to a soft brush or damp cloth. A garden hose may seem handy, but water can sneak into electronics and cause damage.

2. Sharpen and Protect the Blades

A dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it, leaving your lawn ragged. Sharpen the blades now so you’re ready for crisp cuts come spring. Wipe them clean and add a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

3. Fuel System Care (Gas Mowers Only)

Old fuel can gum up the carburetor. Either run the tank dry or add a fuel stabilizer. This little step can save you a costly repair.

4. Fresh Oil & Filters

Think of it as a spa treatment for your mower’s engine. Fresh oil and clean filters mean less wear and tear during storage.

5. Look After the Battery

For electric and robotic models, batteries don’t like to sit ignored. Store them in a cool, dry place and avoid letting them fully discharge.

6. Store It Right

Choose a dry, frost-free spot (garage, shed, or basement).
Don’t pile heavy stuff on top.
Cover it with a breathable cloth: plastic traps moisture.

Extra Tips For Robotic Mower Users

1. Care for the Battery

Fully charge before storing.
Disconnect or remove the battery if your manual suggests it.
Top it up every 8–10 weeks if unused for long stretches.
Keep it away from freezing temperatures.

2. Docking Station & Cables

Clean off any debris and unplug the station. If you live where snow and frost are common, bring the docking station indoors. Coil and store boundary or guide wires neatly.

3. Don’t Forget Firmware Update

Before storage, check for firmware updates. Many robotic mowers also have quick diagnostic tools—run , so you know sensors and navigation are working as they should.

Winter lawn care isn’t about doing more, instead, it’s about doing the right things at the right time. By tailoring your approach to your grass type and climate, and giving your mower a little attention and maintenance, you set the stage for a greener, healthier, and more resilient lawn come spring.