- Spring lawn care in Colorado<\/a><\/li>
- Summer lawn care in Colorado<\/a><\/li>
- Fall lawn care in Colorado<\/a><\/li>
- Winter lawn care in Colorado<\/a><\/li>
- FAQ<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Spring lawn care in Colorado<\/span><\/h2>
As spring arrives in Colorado, it\u2019s the perfect time to jumpstart your lawn care journey. This season sets the stage for a thriving yard, so embracing early lawn care practices can ensure your grass emerges healthy and robust.<\/p>
Here\u2019s what you can do from March to May to make your lawn look the best it can throughout the year:<\/p>
Clear away winter\u2019s clutter: March<\/span><\/h3>
The first step in your lawn care routine should be to clear away any debris accumulated over the winter. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other organic materials can smother your grass, preventing essential sunlight and air from reaching the lawn.<\/p>
Pay special attention to any wet or matted patches of turf. These areas are particularly vulnerable to disease and can inhibit growth if not dealt with. Raking these spots will help air and sunlight penetrate the root zone, warming the turf and speeding up the spring green-up.<\/p>
Pro tip:<\/strong> Not sure about what to do with the debris after you\u2019ve cleaned everything up? We have a guide on what to do with yard waste in Fort Collins<\/a>.<\/p>
Prevent summer weeds: March to April<\/span><\/h3>
![\"close-up](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_1rsz_shutterstock_1701635428.jpg\")
Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Pre-emergent herbicides play a crucial role in managing weed growth in your lawn by preventing the development of new weeds. These herbicides won\u2019t eliminate existing weeds, but they will stop new weeds from growing and taking hold in late spring or early summer. <\/p>
Here is the timing for the application of pre-emergent herbicides<\/a> in Colorado:<\/p>
- Lower elevations:<\/strong> Colorado residents in lower elevations should apply pre-emergent herbicides in March.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Higher elevations:<\/strong> For those living at higher elevations, where spring arrives a bit later, the optimal time to apply these herbicides is in April.<\/li> <\/ul>
Mow the right way: March to May<\/span><\/h3>
![\"growth](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure> After a long winter, your first step before mowing should be to check and sharpen your lawn mower\u2019s blades<\/a>. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to a jagged and uneven cut, which makes the lawn more susceptible to pests and diseases.<\/p>
When setting your mower height, aim for an average cutting height of 2.5 to 3 inches, and never mow your lawn shorter than 2 inches. Keeping the grass at this height helps enhance its drought and disease tolerance.<\/p>
The frequency of mowing will depend on the type of grass you have. Cool-season grasses<\/a>, such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, are in their active growth phase in spring and may need to be mowed every 3 to 4 days. In contrast, warm-season grasses like buffalograss may only need mowing every 10 to 20 days.<\/p>
Revitalize warm-season lawns: April to May<\/span><\/h3>
![\"growth](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure> If your warm-season lawn has begun to thin out or show bare patches, overseeding<\/a> can be an excellent way to restore its lush, green appearance. The optimal time to spread new grass seeds is from late spring to early summer.<\/p>
This timing ensures that the warm-season grass<\/a> seeds benefit from warmer soil temperatures, which are crucial for germination and growth.<\/p>
Tip:<\/strong> Wait until September to overseed cool-season lawns.<\/p>
Fertilize carefully: May<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Lawn](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/handheld-spreader-1.jpg\")
Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> While the common instinct may be to fertilize your Colorado lawn<\/a> at the first sign of spring, for cool-season grasses<\/strong>, this practice should be approached with caution. Traditionally, the best time to fertilize this type of grass is in fall<\/strong>, as spring fertilization can make it more susceptible to insects and diseases.<\/p>
Tip:<\/strong> To truly understand your lawn\u2019s needs, consider conducting a soil test<\/a>. This test will reveal which nutrients are lacking and can guide you on whether your lawn could benefit from two fertilizer applications per year. <\/p>
For those cultivating warm-season grasses<\/strong> like buffalograss<\/a> or blue grama, the timing shifts slightly. These grass types thrive best with fertilizing from late spring through summer<\/strong>. This is when they enter their peak growth phase, making it ideal to give them a boost during this time.<\/p>
Optimize your watering schedule: May<\/span><\/h3>
Watering is arguably the most crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy lawn, but it\u2019s vital to tailor your watering practices to the specific needs of your grass type. Here are a few tips:<\/p>
- Some grass types can go weeks without water. <\/strong>Fine fescues<\/a>, blue grama, and buffalograss don\u2019t need to be watered that often, whereas perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue require more frequent watering.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Start watering your lawn after the last frost<\/strong>, usually in May.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Aim to deliver about 1 inch of water per week<\/strong>, either in one session or split into two sessions.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water during the late evening <\/strong>(between 10 p.m. and midnight) or early morning<\/strong> (between 8 and 9 a.m.) to minimize evaporation. These times are generally cooler and less windy.<\/li> <\/ul>
- To optimize water absorption, use the cycle and soak method.<\/strong> Water in short bursts (cycles) followed by a rest period (soak) to allow water to penetrate deeper into the soil.<\/li> <\/ul>
Summer lawn care in Colorado<\/span><\/h2>
Summer in Colorado brings longer days and warmer weather, setting the stage for warm-season grasses to thrive and enter their peak growing season. Meanwhile, cool-season grasses may go dormant and turn brown as temperatures rise.<\/p>
However, this seasonal shift doesn\u2019t mean your lawn care efforts should take a break. So, let\u2019s take a look at what to do with your lawn between June and August. <\/p>
Water effectively: June to August<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Hand](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/watering-garden.jpeg\")
Adobe Stock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> During the hot summer months in Colorado, your grass\u2019s water needs can increase due to higher temperatures and stronger sunlight. However, it\u2019s important to balance this need without overwatering. <\/p>
Here are some key guidelines for watering your lawn during summer<\/a>:<\/p>
- Aim to provide your lawn with 1 to 1.5 inches of water<\/strong> per week.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water your lawn 2 times a week.<\/strong> Add a third time if you\u2019re seeing visible footprints on the lawn or yellowing of the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Do not water<\/strong> if it has recently rained.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Do not water<\/strong> during high winds.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water your lawn during cooler parts of the day<\/strong>. Areas like Denver are not allowed to water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Your cool-season grass lawn will often require additional watering<\/strong>, whereas a warm-season lawn should be fine with the same amount of water as previous seasons.<\/li> <\/ul>
Maintain the perfect cut: June to August<\/span><\/h3>
![\"illustration](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_1lawnlove-one-third-rule-illustration.png\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez <\/figcaption><\/figure> Proper mowing is essential to maintaining a healthy lawn during the summer months. Here are some tailored mowing tips<\/a> to help your grass withstand the summer heat:<\/p>
- Adjust the mowing height: <\/strong>For cool-season grasses, consider increasing the mowing height by 1\/2 to 1 inch over your usual setting. The longer grass shades the soil, reducing soil temperature and moisture evaporation. Taller grass also develops deeper roots, which enhances drought resistance.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Rule of one-third:<\/strong> It\u2019s important to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. For instance, if you usually mow at 2 inches, allow it to grow to 3 inches before mowing. Then, only cut it down to about 2 inches. This will help prevent stress on the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Mowing conditions:<\/strong> Avoid mowing during peak heat hours or on exceptionally hot days, as this can stress the grass and lead to further dehydration. Early morning or late evening are the best times for mowing.<\/li> <\/ul>
Get rid of pests: June <\/span><\/h3>
![\"Exterminators](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/pest-spray.jpeg\")
Adobe Stock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> The warm summer months in Colorado also stimulate the activity of pests, especially sod webworms and other grubs. They can be quite destructive, feeding on your grass and causing damage.<\/p>
Sod webworms are particularly active during early summer, which coincides with their life cycle of egg-laying and hatching. Here are some options on how to get rid of sod webworms<\/a>:<\/p>
- Chemical treatments:<\/strong> For immediate control, insecticides containing active ingredients like spinosad and synthetic pyrethroids can be used. These chemicals target larvae before they cause extensive damage.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Beneficial nematodes: <\/strong>For those who prefer a less chemical-intensive approach, beneficial nematodes<\/a> are microscopic worms that can be added to your lawn to target and kill sod webworm larvae without harming your grass. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Bacillus thuringiensis<\/em><\/strong> (Bt)<\/strong>: This bacterial insecticide causes paralysis to sod webworms\u2019 larvae, making them starve to death. It is safe for the environment and non-toxic to humans and pets.<\/li> <\/ul>
Combat weeds: June to August<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/pulling-weed.jpeg\")
Adobe Stock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Even with the best preventive measures, such as applying pre-emergent herbicides in spring, some resilient weeds may still find their way through and begin to sprout during the summer. Here\u2019s how to manage these unwanted guests:<\/p>
- Post-emergent herbicides<\/strong>: Spot treat with post-emergent herbicides<\/a>, but make sure to apply them under the right conditions. Avoid applying them when temperatures are above 85 degrees or during drought conditions, as this can stress the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Manual weed removal:<\/strong> If you want to avoid chemicals, you can hand-pull weeds, especially if the infestation is not severe. This method is most effective when the soil is moist because it makes it easier to pull out the entire root.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Regular monitoring:<\/strong> Keep a close eye on your lawn for signs of new weed growth. Early detection and treatment can prevent weeds from spreading across your lawn.<\/li> <\/ul>
Prevent and treat diseases: June to August<\/span><\/h3>
Summer is the prime season for two common lawn diseases in Colorado: necrotic ring spot<\/a> and Ascochyta leaf blight. These diseases can be detrimental to your lawn\u2019s health, but with good lawn care practices, they can often be prevented.<\/p>
- Necrotic ring spot: <\/strong>This disease often appears in lawns that are overwatered or shallowly watered, closely mowed, or have excessive nitrogen levels in the soil. To prevent it, make sure you water deeply but infrequently, maintain a higher mowing height, and avoid overfertilizing.
If these preventive measures are not enough, fungicides containing fenarimol, iprodione, or myclobutanil can be applied to manage outbreaks.<\/li>- Ascochyta leaf blight:<\/strong> This condition typically occurs when turf becomes drought-stressed. Following the irrigation guidelines outlined in this guide should help prevent the onset of Ascochyta.
If Ascochyta does appear, improving general lawn care practices and ensuring the grass is not stressed can help the lawn recover.<\/li> <\/ul>Fall lawn care in Colorado<\/span><\/h2>
Fall is a crucial time for lawn care in Colorado, especially for cool-season lawns. This season is not just about maintaining the visual appeal of your lawn, but also preparing it for the harsh winter ahead. <\/p>
Let\u2019s take a look at how to care for your lawn during fall in Colorado:<\/p>
Keep mowing: September to November<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Mowing](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Mowing-in-fall.jpg\")
Adobe Stock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> As a general rule of thumb, keep mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Maintaining a regular mowing schedule during the fall months is crucial to keep your lawn healthy and prepared for winter.<\/p>
Another key rule to follow is the one-third rule we have already talked about: Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing. There\u2019s no need to mow the grass shorter than usual during fall.<\/p>
Water less than usual: September and October<\/span><\/h3>
In Colorado, it\u2019s essential to continue watering your lawn, albeit less frequently than during the hotter months. Colorado State University<\/a> advises that lawns should receive between 0.5 to 1 inch of water per week during September and October.<\/p>
This watering will help the grass recover from the stress of the summer and support strong growth before winter. <\/p>
Tip: <\/strong>Adjust your watering schedule based on rainfall to ensure that you\u2019re not overwatering your lawn.<\/p>
Aerate and dethatch your lawn: September to October<\/span><\/h3>
Aerating and dethatching your lawn<\/a> in the fall are important practices to ensure its health and vigor if you have a cool-season grass lawn. Here\u2019s what these practices consist of:<\/p>
![\"illustration](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_aeration.png\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure> - Aeration helps alleviate soil compaction<\/strong>, making it easier for water, air, and nutrients to penetrate and nourish your grass’s root system. Aerating your lawn<\/a> involves removing small plugs of soil, which relieves pressure in compacted areas and promotes better root growth.<\/li> <\/ul>
![\"Illustration](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/thatch-illustration.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure> - Dethatching targets the layer of thatch<\/strong>, a build-up of dead and living organic matter between the soil surface and grass blades. This layer can also prevent nutrients, water, and air from reaching the soil.<\/li> <\/ul>
For optimal results, aerate and dethatch your lawn from September to mid-October in Colorado<\/strong>. This timing ensures your lawn can benefit fully from fertilization and overseeding that may follow. Some areas in the state might benefit from aeration and dethatching as early as mid-August.<\/p>
Overseed your lawn: September<\/span><\/h3>
![\"hand](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/rsz_overseeding.jpg\")
Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> The best time to plant grass seeds in Colorado<\/a> is in fall. That means it is also a great opportunity to enhance the density and appearance of your lawn. That\u2019s where overseeding comes in. Overseeding involves spreading new grass seeds over your existing lawn, which will help in thickening thinning areas and covering up bare patches.<\/p>
This process is particularly effective when done after aerating, because it increases seed-to-soil contact, allowing the best grass seeds for Colorado<\/a> to germinate.<\/p>
Although overseeding can be done from March through September in Colorado, the best time to do it if you\u2019re in the Front Range or Western Slope area is in September<\/strong>.<\/p>
Fertilize cool-season grasses: September to November<\/span><\/h3>
Fall is the ideal time to fertilize your cool-season grass lawn in Colorado. Applying fertilizer during this time promotes a healthier, deeper root system that will sustain the grass through the harsh winter months. <\/p>
Additionally, a fall application sets the stage for a quicker and more vibrant green-up when spring arrives.<\/p>
For those at lower altitudes, the best time to fertilize is from late September to early November<\/strong>. If you live in higher altitudes, consider fertilizing earlier to ensure the nutrients are well-absorbed before the ground freezes. <\/p>
How do you fertilize cool-season grasses?<\/strong> First, always follow the label instructions. Ensure the soil is moist so that the nitrogen in the fertilizer dissolves easily. You can also water your lawn after fertilizing to help move the nutrients into the soil and reduce the risk of grass burn.<\/p>
Attention:<\/strong> For those with warm-season grasses (buffalograss or blue grama), hold off on fertilizing until spring.<\/p>
Control weeds: September to November<\/span><\/h3>
Yes, weeds. Even during fall, weeds can continue to emerge and disrupt the health and appearance of your lawn. Perennial weeds like dandelions, clover, and thistle are particularly persistent during this time.<\/p>
The most effective method for controlling weeds like dandelions<\/a> in the fall is to spot treat them with post-emergent herbicides. Alternatively, you can hand-pull them with a top-rated weeder<\/a>.<\/p>
Warning:<\/strong> When using any herbicides (or chemicals in general), it\u2019s important to follow the label instructions carefully.<\/p>
Winterize your sprinkler system: October<\/span><\/h3>
Winterizing your sprinkler system is a crucial step in fall lawn care, especially if you live in an area where temperatures can frequently dip below freezing, like western Colorado. <\/p>
Taking the time to prepare your irrigation system for winter can prevent costly damage due to freezing water. October<\/strong> is usually the best month for winterizing your sprinkler system<\/a> in Colorado. <\/p>
Make sure to drain the system and insulate above-ground components. Calling a professional might be a good idea.<\/p>
Rake leaves: October to November<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Rake](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/rake-leaves_800.jpg\")
Pixabay<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure> Fall foliage might look beautiful on the trees, but once it falls, it can smother your lawn. Leaves accumulate over your lawn and block light and air from reaching the grass blades, creating a damp, shadowed environment ideal for pests and diseases to thrive.<\/p>
Raking up leaves and removing debris prevent these issues and improve the overall appearance of your yard.<\/p>
- Dethatching targets the layer of thatch<\/strong>, a build-up of dead and living organic matter between the soil surface and grass blades. This layer can also prevent nutrients, water, and air from reaching the soil.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Ascochyta leaf blight:<\/strong> This condition typically occurs when turf becomes drought-stressed. Following the irrigation guidelines outlined in this guide should help prevent the onset of Ascochyta.
- Necrotic ring spot: <\/strong>This disease often appears in lawns that are overwatered or shallowly watered, closely mowed, or have excessive nitrogen levels in the soil. To prevent it, make sure you water deeply but infrequently, maintain a higher mowing height, and avoid overfertilizing.
- Regular monitoring:<\/strong> Keep a close eye on your lawn for signs of new weed growth. Early detection and treatment can prevent weeds from spreading across your lawn.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Manual weed removal:<\/strong> If you want to avoid chemicals, you can hand-pull weeds, especially if the infestation is not severe. This method is most effective when the soil is moist because it makes it easier to pull out the entire root.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Post-emergent herbicides<\/strong>: Spot treat with post-emergent herbicides<\/a>, but make sure to apply them under the right conditions. Avoid applying them when temperatures are above 85 degrees or during drought conditions, as this can stress the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Bacillus thuringiensis<\/em><\/strong> (Bt)<\/strong>: This bacterial insecticide causes paralysis to sod webworms\u2019 larvae, making them starve to death. It is safe for the environment and non-toxic to humans and pets.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Beneficial nematodes: <\/strong>For those who prefer a less chemical-intensive approach, beneficial nematodes<\/a> are microscopic worms that can be added to your lawn to target and kill sod webworm larvae without harming your grass. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Chemical treatments:<\/strong> For immediate control, insecticides containing active ingredients like spinosad and synthetic pyrethroids can be used. These chemicals target larvae before they cause extensive damage.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Mowing conditions:<\/strong> Avoid mowing during peak heat hours or on exceptionally hot days, as this can stress the grass and lead to further dehydration. Early morning or late evening are the best times for mowing.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Rule of one-third:<\/strong> It\u2019s important to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. For instance, if you usually mow at 2 inches, allow it to grow to 3 inches before mowing. Then, only cut it down to about 2 inches. This will help prevent stress on the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Adjust the mowing height: <\/strong>For cool-season grasses, consider increasing the mowing height by 1\/2 to 1 inch over your usual setting. The longer grass shades the soil, reducing soil temperature and moisture evaporation. Taller grass also develops deeper roots, which enhances drought resistance.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Your cool-season grass lawn will often require additional watering<\/strong>, whereas a warm-season lawn should be fine with the same amount of water as previous seasons.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water your lawn during cooler parts of the day<\/strong>. Areas like Denver are not allowed to water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Do not water<\/strong> during high winds.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Do not water<\/strong> if it has recently rained.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water your lawn 2 times a week.<\/strong> Add a third time if you\u2019re seeing visible footprints on the lawn or yellowing of the grass.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Aim to provide your lawn with 1 to 1.5 inches of water<\/strong> per week.<\/li> <\/ul>
- To optimize water absorption, use the cycle and soak method.<\/strong> Water in short bursts (cycles) followed by a rest period (soak) to allow water to penetrate deeper into the soil.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Water during the late evening <\/strong>(between 10 p.m. and midnight) or early morning<\/strong> (between 8 and 9 a.m.) to minimize evaporation. These times are generally cooler and less windy.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Aim to deliver about 1 inch of water per week<\/strong>, either in one session or split into two sessions.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Start watering your lawn after the last frost<\/strong>, usually in May.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Some grass types can go weeks without water. <\/strong>Fine fescues<\/a>, blue grama, and buffalograss don\u2019t need to be watered that often, whereas perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue require more frequent watering.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Higher elevations:<\/strong> For those living at higher elevations, where spring arrives a bit later, the optimal time to apply these herbicides is in April.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Summer lawn care in Colorado<\/a><\/li>