Winter temperatures and weather conditions can be detrimental to your lawn and landscape. This is especially the case if they are not prepared and cared for properly. Winterkill is the term for any sort of lawn damage or death caused by inclement winter weather. While cool season grasses are typically known for their winter resiliency, severe weather can still get the best of them.

Here are some of the most common ways that winterkill can occur:

Freezing

Fluctuating temperatures can cause fallen snow to melt down and then refreeze as solid ice over your yard. This layer of ice has the potential to damage or kill even the most resilient cool season grasses if it persists for more than 30 days at a time.

Snowfall

A soft blanket of non-compacted snow can offer insulation for your lawn, keeping it safe from the elements. However, when snow cover persists, the insulation presents the perfect environment for snow mold.

Vulnerability

If your grass remains bare and dormant it can potentially become dried out from the arid winter air. In addition, unprotected grass has a better probability of becoming damaged by excessive foot traffic.

The best way to keep your lawn safe from winterkill is with preparation and careful monitoring as the season goes on. Should your lawn suffer any ailments from the inclement weather conditions, a good lawn care program come spring should help you get back on track!

Turf Unlimited is a full-service lawn care provider, offering a wide variety of lawn care, fertilization, and pest and weed control services to the Massachusetts or New Hampshire area. For more information about our services call 888-649-9919 and schedule your free, in-home estimate today.