Foolproof Fall Prep for an Irresistible Yard in Miami, FL

Fall lawn care in Miami is different from most of the rest of the United States. For that matter, prepping a south Florida lawn for the autumn season isn’t the same as fall prep in other areas of the state. As September fades into October, you have to get your yard sorted so that it can withstand the cooler temperatures of winter and burst forth in the spring. Here is a guide to help you figure out precisely how to care for your lawn once that sunny Miami summertime begins to draw to a close.

Fertilize for the Season

Typically, it’s best to avoid fertilizing your lawn in the fall. All those nutrients still work, and your grass will flourish, but in colder climates, the grass grows like gangbusters only to get zapped by the first frost. That’s even true in northern Florida. Head further south, however, and a dose of fertilizer is just what the lawn doctor ordered. Late fall, winter, and early spring are warmer in Miami. That’s why all those snowbirds fly to south Florida for the winter. To dazzle them with a lush lawn, lightly fertilize your front and backyard as you complete your fall prep.

Stop Mowing

Don’t store the lawnmower for the season just yet. You don’t have to stop mowing entirely, nor should you. There’s no need to cut the lawn as often in the fall, though. As soon as there’s a noticeable dip in the temperature, including a nip in the nighttime air, then scale back on the trimming. Even in places like Miami where the sunshine occurs nearly year round, grass growth slows down in fall and winter. Cutting it too often destroys all its cool-weather progress. While you’re at it, adjust your mower blades to ensure they aren’t too low. There’s no need to chop up the grass.

Watch the Watering

Over-watering isn’t just a spring- and summertime worry. Watering too much in the fall has a disastrous effect on your sod. Miami is well-known for its nearly constant sunshine and balmy temperatures, but those numbers nevertheless drop in fall and winter. Not only does that mean that your grass won’t need to be watered as frequently, but it also means that too much water can potentially freeze the roots. Just let your lawn speak to you. Eyeball it, walk on it, and feel it. Allow it to tell you that it needs water instead of putting it on a schedule. On the other hand, homeowners who rely on irrigation systems need to program them for the season.

Make Use of Fallen Leaves

Most Miami lawns don’t have to deal with a ton of fall foliage. However, you probably still have a few fallen leaves, not to mention grass clippings and weeds. Use them. Shred the leaves and other green debris with the mower. You can use all of that as organic mulch.

Prepping your yard for the fall doesn’t require much effort. Planning for the fall and coming winter is just different in Miami. There are other circumstances to consider besides freezing temperatures. How do you get your lawn ready for the colder weather?

Feature image source: Zillow