Winter Lawn Care: What You Can Do to Keep Your Yard Healthy in the Cold

Winter in Calgary brings freezing temperatures, snow, and icy conditions, which can be tough on your lawn. While grass goes dormant during the winter months, there are still several steps you can take to protect it and ensure it bounces back in the spring. Follow these winter lawn care tips to maintain a healthy, vibrant yard year-round.

1. Clear Debris Before the First Snowfall

Leaves, branches, and other debris left on your lawn can smother the grass, invite pests, and encourage mold growth under the snow. Before Calgary’s first snowfall, rake up leaves and clear any objects from the lawn. This will ensure your grass has enough air circulation and sunlight when temperatures rise again.

• Pro Tip: Compost your collected leaves or mulch them to enrich your soil for spring.

2. Aerate and Fertilize in Late Fall

If you didn’t get a chance to aerate your lawn in the fall, it’s a valuable step to consider. Aerating before the ground freezes allows nutrients, water, and oxygen to penetrate the soil. Follow up with a winter fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus to promote root strength and prepare your lawn for the cold months.

• Pro Tip: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can stimulate growth that is vulnerable to winter damage.

3. Minimize Foot Traffic

Dormant grass is more susceptible to damage, especially when it’s covered in snow. Repeated foot traffic can lead to compacted soil and create bare spots in the spring. Designate clear walkways and encourage family members and pets to stay off the lawn.

• Pro Tip: Use de-icing salt sparingly, as it can damage grass and nearby plants. Opt for sand or pet-safe ice melt products instead.

4. Snow Management Tips

Snow acts as an insulating layer that protects your lawn from extreme cold temperatures. However, uneven snow distribution can cause some areas to become vulnerable. Avoid piling snow on one spot, especially on your lawn, as this can suffocate the grass and lead to snow mold.

• Pro Tip: Regularly clear driveways and sidewalks to prevent salt runoff from damaging your lawn.

5. Watch for Signs of Snow Mold

Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycle can create the perfect environment for snow mold, a fungal disease that leaves circular patches of gray or pink mold on your grass. Prevent snow mold by keeping your lawn short and well-raked in the fall. If snow mold appears in the spring, lightly rake the affected areas to improve air circulation.

• Pro Tip: Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization in late fall, as it can contribute to snow mold growth.

6. Protect Trees and Shrubs

Winter can also be harsh on your landscape plants. Wrap delicate shrubs with burlap or install protective tree guards to prevent damage from snow, ice, and hungry animals. Applying mulch around the base of trees and shrubs will insulate the roots and retain moisture.

• Pro Tip: Water trees and shrubs during warmer winter days to prevent dehydration, especially for younger plants.

7. Plan for Spring

Winter is a great time to plan your lawn care strategy for spring. Evaluate your lawn’s condition and make a list of tasks you’ll need to tackle once the snow melts. Consider overseeding patchy areas, aerating, and applying fertilizer early in the season.

• Pro Tip: Schedule a spring lawn care service with TD Greenworks for expert assistance and get a head start on a greener, healthier lawn.

Final Thoughts

Taking a few simple steps during the winter months can protect your lawn from seasonal damage and set it up for success in the spring. From clearing debris and managing snow to watching for mold and planning ahead, proactive care makes all the difference.

For personalized winter lawn care tips or to book a service, contact TD Greenworks today. Let us help you keep your lawn healthy all year long!