Ok, we can say it together... cooler temperatures are FINALLY here. For awhile there, it seemed that highs in the upper 80s were just never going to drop. Plants (and animals too) take cues from Mother Nature to start slowing growth and shutting down for the winter. These cues include a shortened photoperiod, the aforementioned cooler temperatures, and resulting gradual drops in soil temperature.
My friends at NG Turf narrow the focus when it comes to properly treating lawns ahead of these cooler months!
Adjust watering as temperatures cool
Lawns need less water as temperatures fall and growth begins to slow. Continue monitoring rainfall and soil moisture instead of following the same irrigation schedule used during summer.
The goal is to keep the soil adequately moist without creating consistently wet conditions that may encourage disease. Early morning is still the best time to water because it allows grass blades to dry during the day and reduces unnecessary evaporation.
Watch for brown patches and disease activity
Moderate temperatures, moisture, poor drainage, and reduced airflow can create favorable conditions for fungal disease. Watch for circular patches, thinning grass, discolored blades, or areas that remain wet longer than the surrounding lawn.
Different problems can produce similar symptoms, so proper identification is important before applying a treatment. Think the problem may be Brown Patch? Read more about that here.
Clear leaves off of grass blades
A light scattering of leaves usually is not a concern, but thick layers can block sunlight and trap moisture against the grass. Regularly rake, mulch, or remove fallen leaves before they become matted. Keeping the lawn clear also makes it easier to notice drainage issues, disease symptoms, or areas that remain thin after summer.
Leaving the leaves is a great strategy to protect overwintering insects. If possible, find an area off of the grass that can tolerate the leaves being left alone. It doesn’t have to be that big of a space!
Test soil before making amendments
Before adding lime, fertilizer, or other soil amendments, consider completing a professional soil test. The results can identify pH and nutrient levels, helping make decisions based on what the lawn actually needs.
Fall is also a convenient time to test bare soil if you are preparing an area for new sod. Read more about fall soil tests and why it matters for a healthy lawn.
Don’t assume you have to wait until spring for sod
Fall can be an excellent time to install sod across the South. Cool-season varieties benefit from cooler growing conditions, while warm-season Bermuda and zoysia can also be installed successfully with proper preparation and care.
Prepare the soil before delivery, install the sod promptly, establish good root-to-soil contact, and continue watering according to current weather conditions. Be successful installing sod in the fall! Warm-season grass may enter dormancy before it is fully established, but that does not mean the installation has failed.
Prepare your lawn for fall gatherings
October is one of the best times of year to enjoy the backyard. Before hosting a football watch party, gathering around the fire pit, or inviting friends over, walk the property and check for thin areas, uneven ground, drainage concerns, or signs of summer stress.
A healthy lawn provides a comfortable, polished foundation for patios, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and other gathering spaces. Is your lawn ready for entertaining?
NG Turf’s Certified Turf Professionals can help you choose the right sod variety, prepare for installation, and care for your lawn as temperatures change. Contact NG Turf at 770-832-8608 for expert guidance and premium sod varieties.
Brought to you by NG Turf—premium, certified sod backed by knowledgeable turf professionals and exceptional customer service.
