Seasonal Sod Maintenance: How to Keep Your Lawn Green Through Fall and Winter
As the weather cools in Florida, many homeowners wonder what happens to their lush green lawns. Does the grass stop growing? Do you still need to water and mow? At Agriscape Sod Service in Sarasota, we’re here to help you keep your sod looking vibrant year-round. With the right fall and winter lawn care practices, your grass can stay healthy, green, and ready to thrive come spring.
What Happens to Florida Lawns in the Cooler Months?
Unlike northern regions, Florida doesn’t experience harsh winters, but your lawn still slows down in growth. Warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Zoysia, and Bahia enter a semi-dormant state—they grow more slowly, and in some cases, lose a bit of color.
But with proper maintenance, you can prevent your lawn from becoming patchy, dry, or weed-ridden during the cooler seasons.
Fall & Winter Lawn Maintenance Tips
1. Adjust Your Mowing Schedule
As growth slows, reduce mowing frequency. Avoid cutting grass too short—aim for:
St. Augustine: 3.5–4 inches
Zoysia: 1–2.5 inches
Bahia: 3–4 inches
Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time to prevent stress.
2. Reduce Irrigation, But Don’t Stop
Florida lawns still need water in fall and winter, just less of it. A good rule of thumb is:
1/2 inch of water per week, including rainfall
Water in the early morning to avoid disease risk
Use a rain sensor or moisture meter to avoid overwatering.
3. Fertilize with Caution
Apply a fall fertilizer formulated for your grass type, ideally in early October. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers after late October, as they can encourage weak growth that’s more vulnerable to cold damage.
Look for products with:
Slow-release nitrogen
Higher potassium (for root strength)
Micronutrients like iron for greener color
4. Watch for Pests and Disease
Chinch bugs, fungus, and lawn diseases don’t disappear in fall. Keep an eye out for:
Discolored patches
Irregular brown spots
Mushy or thinning turf
Apply fungicides or insecticides as needed, and consult a lawn care expert if issues persist.
5. Consider Overseeding for Winter Color
If your lawn tends to lose color in winter, overseeding with perennial ryegrass can keep it green. This cool-season grass thrives during the winter months and fades out naturally in spring as warm-season grass takes over.
FAQ
Q: Does grass stop growing in Florida during winter?
A: Growth slows significantly, especially for warm-season grasses, but it doesn't completely stop. With proper care, your lawn can stay healthy and green.
Q: Should I keep watering my lawn in the winter?
A: Yes, but less frequently. About 1/2 inch of water per week is typically enough during cooler months.
Q: What’s the best mowing height in the fall?
A: Maintain your grass at its recommended height—don’t scalp the lawn. Taller blades help protect the root system during cool weather.
Q: Can I fertilize my lawn in October?
A: Yes, October is a great time for fall fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer tailored to your grass type.
Q: Is overseeding necessary in Florida?
A: It’s optional but helpful if you want to maintain green color through winter, especially with St. Augustine or Zoysia lawns that may lose vibrancy.
Keep Your Lawn Looking Great All Season
Whether you’re maintaining sod through fall or planning for winter overseeding, Agriscape Sod Service is your local lawn expert in Sarasota. We offer the advice, products, and services you need to keep your turf healthy and attractive year-round.
Visit our website or call us today at (833) 247-4763 to schedule a consultation or get help with your seasonal lawn care!