Winter is a dormant period for warm season lawns like zoysia, St. Augustine, bermuda grass and more. That doesn’t mean it should be neglected. Understanding and debunking common winter lawn care myths ensures your lawn remains healthy and vibrant, ready for spring.

Myth 1: Lawns Don’t Need Water in Winter

Contrary to popular belief, your lawn still needs water during the winter, although less frequently. Even during cold months, prolonged dry spells can dehydrate the soil and grass roots.

Occasional light watering on warmer days ensures the grass stays hydrated without freezing or causing ice formation, maintaining its health through dormancy.

Myth 2: Fertilizer is Unnecessary in Cold Weather

It’s a common misconception that lawns require fertilization during the winter months. In reality, grass in its dormant state does not actively grow or utilize nutrients like it does in warmer seasons.

Adding fertilizer in winter can lead to nutrient runoff or waste, as the inactive roots cannot absorb these added nutrients effectively.

Instead, the best practice is to fertilize in late fall, when the grass can still use the boost to prepare for dormancy, ensuring a healthier start in spring.

Myth 3: Mowing is Not Necessary During Winter

It’s a myth that mowing stops completely with the cold. While your lawn grows slower, maintaining an appropriate grass height is vital.

This prevents the grass from matting under snow, discouraging fungal growth and pest infestation. The last mow of the season should leave your grass slightly shorter to avoid trapping moisture. Learn more.

Myth 4: Winter is a Good Time to Aerate and Seed

Aeration and seeding are best done in seasons when grass can recover and grow actively—usually fall or early spring. Seeding in winter means the seeds likely won’t germinate until the conditions improve, and frost can harm newly exposed roots from aeration.

Myth 5: Bare Spots in Winter Will Recover Naturally

Ignoring bare spots during the winter is risky; they can become compacted and infertile, worsening when growth resumes. Protective measures like covering these spots with suitable materials or planning for early spring treatment can prevent degradation and prepare for lush regrowth.

Proper winter lawn care is essential for a healthy yard year-round. By debunking these myths, homeowners can take proactive steps to ensure their lawn remains vibrant and prepared for spring.