{"id":584,"date":"2018-08-08T15:22:47","date_gmt":"2018-08-08T15:22:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.wpengine.com\/?p=584"},"modified":"2026-08-06T19:56:19","modified_gmt":"2026-08-06T19:56:19","slug":"fall-lawn-care-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Fall Lawn Care Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Mow until growth stops<\/strong>. Stop mowing cool-season lawns by November, and stop mowing warm-season lawns when they stop growing.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Mulch leaves thin or bag them.<\/strong> Remove thick leaves off your lawn to prevent diseases and pests.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Apply a fall fertilizer.<\/strong> It helps roots recover from summer heat and protects your lawn from harsh winter weather.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fall is one of the most important times of year for your lawn. The work you do now, from the last mow to the final fertilizer, sets up a healthy, vibrant lawn come spring.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Proper fall lawn care prepares your grass to survive winter dormancy and bounce back strong when warm weather returns. Every fall lawn care task below is timed by soil temperature and grass type, so tasks differ between cool-season and warm-season grass. <\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide covers when to stop mowing and watering, how to handle falling leaves, fall weed control, aeration and overseeding, and fertilizing for winter. If you&#8217;d rather not spend your weekends on it, a local Lawn Love <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=mowing\">lawn mowing<\/a> pro can take these chores off your hands.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-635711a9-7ec6-418d-a61d-e1cc62c41fee\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this Article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#0-continue-mowing-until-the-grass-stops-growing-\" style=\"\">Continue mowing until the grass stops growing<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#1-adjust-lawn-watering-\" style=\"\">Adjust lawn watering<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#2-manage-falling-leaves-\" style=\"\">Manage falling leaves<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#3-treat-and-control-weeds-\" style=\"\">Treat and control weeds<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#4-remove-excess-thatch\" style=\"\">Remove excess thatch<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#5-aerate-compacted-soil\" style=\"\">Aerate compacted soil<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#6-overseed-thin-spots\" style=\"\">Overseed thin spots<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#7-fertilize-for-strong-roots-\" style=\"\">Fertilize for strong roots<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-lawn-care-tips\/#8-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-continue-mowing-until-the-grass-stops-growing-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"continue-mowing-until-the-grass-stops-growing\">Continue mowing until the grass stops growing<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of cool-season grass\" class=\"wp-image-17693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/cool-season-grass-1-610x343.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of warm-season grass\" class=\"wp-image-17692\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/warm-season-grass-610x343.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographics by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stop mowing once the <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-does-grass-stop-growing\/\">grass stops growing<\/a>. For cool-season lawns, that&#8217;s usually October or November, or when soil temperatures drop to about 40 degrees. Warm-season grass simply tells you when it&#8217;s done: it stops growing.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s tempting to let the grass go uncut over winter, but overgrown grass mats down and invites fungal diseases. Mowing until growth stops also cuts down on winter damage and pests, too.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t cut that last mow too short, though. P. Agustin Boeri, turfgrass specialist at the Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas, warns that scalping the lawn backfires.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;If the turfgrass is cut too short, it may not recover, which increases the risk of winter kill and creates open spaces where winter weeds can germinate,&#8221; he says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How short is safe? Stick to your normal mowing height for the final cut, right around 2 to 3 inches for most grasses.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A little extra length protects the crown through the cold. Crown refers to the base of the grass plant at the soil line where new growth emerges. Protecting it is what lets the lawn regrow in spring.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/last-mow-of-the-season\/#:~:text=Why%20is%20the%20last%20mow%20of%20the%20year%20important?,-Pixabay&amp;text=Letting%20your%20grass%20grow%20tall,to%20your%20lawn's%20substantial%20thinning.\">Last Mow of the Season<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"1-adjust-lawn-watering-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"adjust-lawn-watering\">Adjust lawn watering<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stop watering your lawn in fall once temperatures drop. For cool-season grass, that means when daytime highs stay below 40 degrees and nights fall into the low 30s. For warm-season grass, stop once daytime highs drop below 50 degrees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grass still needs water in fall to build a strong root system for winter. But once temperatures dip below freezing, especially if the ground freezes, watering does more harm than good:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>When water hits frozen ground, it turns to ice, which expands and damages the grass roots.<\/li>    <li>A layer of ice damages the blades and blocks the soil from absorbing moisture, leaving you with mud once it melts.<\/li>    <li>Both cool- and warm-season grass go dormant in winter, and overwatering dormant grass invites fungal disease.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-stop-watering-lawn\/\">When to Stop Watering Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"2-manage-falling-leaves-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"manage-falling-leaves\">Manage falling leaves<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"483\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Raking leaves into a bag\" class=\"wp-image-26354\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1-300x181.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1-768x464.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1-610x368.jpeg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">It&#8217;s best to bag leaves if they&#8217;ve formed a thick layer across your lawn. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/seasonal-raking-of-leaves-in-the-garden-concept-of-cleaning-and-caring-for-the-garden-man-rakes-withered-and-colorful-leaves-in-the-garden-autumn-cleaning-before-winter-spring-cleaning-garden\/300998577?asset_id=300998577\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sebastian<\/a>&nbsp;\/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s how to handle heavy leaf buildup without smothering the grass \u2014 mulch it thin enough to blend into the canopy or bag it once cover gets deep. Mulch a light layer with a rotary mower, which chops leaves into fertilizer.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A heavy blanket blocks sunlight and air, and decomposing leaves promote mold and fungus.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Mulched leaves should blend into the turfgrass canopy,&#8221; Boeri says. &#8220;Leaving thick layers of mulched leaves on top of the turf can smother and kill it.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In other words, if you can still see grass through the chopped leaves, you&#8217;re fine. If you see a mat of leaves, bag it.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Deal with leaves any time from September to December, depending on your climate and tree species, whenever the cover starts getting deep. For more on leaf handling, see <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/uses-for-fall-leaves\/\">what to do with fall<\/a> leaves on your lawn and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-leaf-blower\/\">how to use a leaf blower<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-tools-collect-leaves\/\">12 Tools to Use to Collect Autumn Leaves<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"3-treat-and-control-weeds-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"treat-and-control-weeds\">Treat and control weeds<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For fall weed control on both cool-season and warm-season grass, apply <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-apply-pre-emergent-herbicide\/\">pre-emergent herbicides<\/a> from late August to October, or whenever soil temperatures, not air temperatures, fall below 70 degrees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timing to the soil is what stops next spring&#8217;s weeds before they sprout.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pawel Petelewicz, assistant professor of Turfgrass Weed Science at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, says pre-emergent herbicides are key.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;From an herbicide standpoint, prevention is generally more important than reactive control; therefore, pre-emergence herbicides form the foundation of most weed management programs.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In short, getting ahead of weeds now saves you a bigger battle come spring.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure the herbicide is compatible with your grass type and formulated for the weeds you plan to target. If you&#8217;d rather skip chemicals entirely, hand-pulling and hoeing work well in fall too (see the FAQ below).<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re battling crabgrass, skip the fall application. Crabgrass doesn&#8217;t develop until late spring or early summer, so apply between mid-March and May, or when soil temperatures hit 50 to 55 degrees.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-are-pre-emergent-herbicides\/\">What Are Pre-Emergent Herbicides?<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"4-remove-excess-thatch\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"remove-excess-thatch\">Remove excess thatch<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dethatch cool-season grass between late August and early September. Dethatch warm-season grass in the spring.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A light layer of thatch isn\u2019t a bad thing: That organic debris insulates the soil and conserves moisture. But <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-dethatching\/\">too much thatch<\/a> blocks water and fertilizer, plus creates a haven for pests and diseases.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Is your thatch too high? Use a trowel or spade to remove a plug of grass and soil.&nbsp;If the thatch layer is more than \u00bd inch, it\u2019s time to act.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Be safe:<\/strong>&nbsp;Before using a power rake or vertical cutter, mark any sprinkler heads, water lines, and buried utility lines.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-dethatch-lawn\/\">How to Dethatch Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"5-aerate-compacted-soil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"aerate-compacted-soil\">Aerate compacted soil<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration of compacted soil\" class=\"wp-image-5848\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration-610x305.jpg 610w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/rsz_lawnlove-compacted-soil-illustration-390x195.jpg 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aerate cool-season grass between mid-August and October, and warm-season grass from May to July. Compacted soil chokes off air, water, and nutrients, so the grass thins out and dies. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-lawn-aeration\/\">Aeration pokes holes<\/a> through the lawn so roots can breathe again.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chelsea Morris of High-Class Grass in Virginia Beach, Virginia, says it is good to aerate your lawn regularly.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;A lot of properties have compacted soil, so I recommend aerating at least once a year.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not sure you need it? Run the screwdriver test. Push a screwdriver into the ground. If it slides in easily to the handle, you&#8217;re fine. If you meet resistance, it&#8217;s time to aerate.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/core-or-spike-aeration\/\">core (or plug) aerator<\/a>, which pulls plugs of soil with hollow metal tubes, when the soil is moist \u2014 water the night before if needed, but not so much that the tubes clog.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d rather hire out, check lawn aeration cost for current pricing, or rent a core aerator for a DIY session.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For those going the hired route, <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=aeration\">aeration<\/a> is a task local pros handle routinely.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-aerate-lawn\/\">How to Aerate Your Lawn<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/can-dethatch-and-aerate-at-same-time\/\">Can You Dethatch and Aerate at the Same Time?<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"6-overseed-thin-spots\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"overseed-thin-spots\">Overseed thin spots<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overseed cool-season grass between mid-August and mid-September, or 45 days before the first hard frost. Overseed warm-season lawns for winter color between mid-October and early November. Either way, aim for soil temperatures in the 50 to 65-degree range.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For cool-season lawns, overseeding fills thin spots and crowds out weeds; keep the seedbed moist with light daily watering.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For warm-season lawns, overseeding with cool-season grass adds winter color. Boeri says it&#8217;s a common practice on sports fields and golf courses for Bermudagrass to be mixed with <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/perennial-ryegrass-guide\/\">perennial ryegrass<\/a> for its thick growth and deep color.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overseeding is one of the most affordable ways to thicken a lawn. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-seeding-cost\/\">Lawn seeding costs<\/a> between $0.07 and $0.23 per square foot.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good seed-to-soil contact is essential, but go easy.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Scalping the Bermudagrass to its lowest recommended height is a widely used method to create a good seeding surface,&#8221; Boeri says, &#8220;but (it) can stress warm-season grasses if done late in the season.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-dethatch-lawn\/\">How to Dethatch Your Lawn<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/overseeding-mistakes\/\">10 Top Overseeding Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"7-fertilize-for-strong-roots-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"fertilize-for-strong-roots\">Fertilize for strong roots<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"469\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-1.jpg\" alt=\"How to spread fertilizer\" class=\"wp-image-28010\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-1-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-1-768x450.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/rsz_how-to-spread-fertilizer-v2-1-610x358.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apply fall fertilizer to cool-season grasses between September and November, and to warm-season grasses between August and mid-September, no later than the end of September.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a complete, high-nitrogen and high-potassium fertilizer, guided by a soil test. A fall feeding helps grasses keep healthy roots and store energy to get through winter.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Timing matters, though. As Alec Kowalewski, PhD of Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, says you want to make sure your grass isn&#8217;t stressed, is actively growing and well-watered.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;For cool-season turfgrass, don&#8217;t apply fertilizer during periods of drought stress.&#8221;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>For cool-season grass, use a complete fertilizer with a high ratio of both nitrogen and potassium.<\/li>    <li>For warm-season grass, Boeri recommends 0.5 to 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, with the soil test guiding the rate for other nutrients.<\/li>    <li>Don&#8217;t fertilize before a heavy rain, which can wash fertilizer off your lawn and into storm drains. Instead, give the grass a light watering to help it soak in.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don&#8217;t want to deal with timing and rates, you can always leave the job to a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">lawn treatment<\/a> pro.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-apply-fall-fertilizer\/\">When to Apply Fall Fertilizer to Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"8-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-0\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Should I remove the soil plugs left on the lawn after core aeration?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, leave them in place. They break down within a couple of weeks and return nutrients and organic matter to the soil as they decompose.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some non-chemical ways to rid my lawn of weeds?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Hand-pull weeds after a rain, use a hoe for seedlings and a dandelion puller for taproots, and reserve boiling water for cracks in the driveway or patio, since it kills any plant it touches.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-2\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I use weed-and-feed products in the fall?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Usually not the best call. Combination products are convenient but limited. &#8220;The timing of your pre-emergent and your last fertilizer application may not align,&#8221; Boeri says. &#8220;It is also difficult to match the correct fertilizer and herbicide rates in a single product. &#8220;<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"9-let-a-pro-handle-all-your-fall-yard-care\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"let-a-pro-handle-all-your-fall-yard-care\">Let a pro handle all your fall yard care<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fall chores add up fast, and there&#8217;s a short window to get them done before winter. Lawn Love can help. We&#8217;ll <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-mowing\">connect you with local pros<\/a> who handle mowing, aeration, overseeding, and leaf removal, all backed by our satisfaction guarantee.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image Credit: Use a leaf blower with a bag. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/man-working-with-leaf-blower-the-leaves-are-being-swirled-up-and-down-on-a-sunny-day\/182790575?prev_url=detail\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saklakova<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Fall lawn care done right means a healthy spring lawn. Learn when to mow, water, fertilize, aerate, overseed, and control weeds by grass type.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":122,"featured_media":42995,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall foliage is beautiful to look at \u2014 but all those leaves covering your lawn can smother your grass. Leaf removal is just one of the things you need to do to care for your lawn in fall. Aeration, fertilization, and weed control are some of the other items on our fall lawn care checklist.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>What you do now sets your yard up for success come springtime. Your grass will green up faster, those bare patches will be filled in, and you\u2019ll spend less time battling weeds.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall lawn care can be wildly different depending on your grass type and where you live.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>With&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/guide-to-cool-season-grasses\/\">cool-season grasse<\/a>s, there\u2019s more work to do ahead of winter dormancy. If your lawn is a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/guide-to-warm-season-grasses\/\">warm-season grass type<\/a>, it\u2019s more mowing as usual through fall till you cut your grass biweekly or monthly instead of weekly.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>No matter where you live or your grass type, the most obvious sign of fall will be leaves that need to be removed.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-leaf-removal\">1. Leaf removal<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":26354,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AdobeStock_300998577-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Seasonal raking of leaves in the yard, putting leaves in a bag\" class=\"wp-image-26354\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/seasonal-raking-of-leaves-in-the-garden-concept-of-cleaning-and-caring-for-the-garden-man-rakes-withered-and-colorful-leaves-in-the-garden-autumn-cleaning-before-winter-spring-cleaning-garden\/300998577?asset_id=300998577\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sebastian<\/a>&nbsp;| Adobe Stock Free |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall leaves are beautiful, but all those leaves on your lawn can harm your grass.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Leaves\u2026<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Smother grass.<\/strong>\u00a0Leaves block the sun, water, and air your grass needs.\u00a0<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Spur lawn diseases<\/strong>\u00a0(such as snow molds, red thread, and brown patch).<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Attract pests<\/strong>\u00a0(ants, termites, cockroaches, and rodents, for example).<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Increase weeds.<\/strong>\u00a0A thick layer of moist leaves fuels weed growth.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Lower curb appeal.<\/strong>\u00a0Your yard looks uncared for or like a lot of work to buyers.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Leaf removal is a lot of potentially back-straining work. You\u2019re bending over a rake and then bending over to scoop all those leaves into bags. Leaf cleanup takes a lot of time, too. That is why homeowners increasingly&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/?intent=leafRemoval\">hire a local leaf removal crew<\/a>&nbsp;to get rid of all those leaves.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you DIY your leaf removal, you can rake leaves or blow leaves into piles. Check if your city has free leaf removal and if the collection is of loose leaves raked to the curb or bagged leaves set out with your trash or in a special container.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You also can mulch leaves with your lawn mower or compost leaves. In both cases, mulched leaves or leaves in compost return nutrients to the soil.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<br><\/strong>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-way-to-remove-leaves-from-your-yard\/\">Best Way to Remove Leaves From Your Yard<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-to-do-with-fall-leaves\/\">What to Do with Fall Leaves<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/what%20is%20leaf%20mold%20and%20how%20to%20make%20it\/\">What is Leaf Mold and How to Make It<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-dethatch-your-grass-if-needed\">2. Dethatch your grass (if needed)<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":19318} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/rsz_lawnlove-thatch-illustration.jpg\" alt=\"illustration explaining thatch on grass\" class=\"wp-image-19318\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Infographic by Juan Rodriguez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>When to dethatch cool-season grass:&nbsp;<\/strong>Early fall (September)<br><strong>Warm-season grasses:<\/strong>&nbsp;Don\u2019t dethatch your lawn in fall.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Thatch is the layer of living and dead organic matter between your grass and the soil. A little is fine, but&nbsp;<strong>excess thatch (thicker than \u00bd-inch) can foster pests and diseases<\/strong>, as well as prevent air, water, and nutrients from getting into the soil and the root system.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall is the ideal time to dethatch cool-season grasses because your grass is actively growing and can repair the damage that dethatching can do. Warm-season grasses will be heading into dormancy and should not be dethatched this season.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>How do I check for thatch?&nbsp;<\/strong>To check for thatch, dig out a soil sample and measure the spongy layer between your grass and the soil. You can use a spade or a trowel to do this.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If your lawn\u2019s thatch layer is too thick, dethatch your lawn. You can use a thatch rake for minor dethatching projects. For major thatch issues, we recommend using a power rake or vertical mower.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-thatch\/\">What is Thatch?<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-dethatch-lawn\/\">How to Dethatch Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-3-aerate-the-ground-if-needed\">3. Aerate the ground (if needed)<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":27027,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/aerated-lawn-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"Pile of plugs of soil removed from sports field. Waste of core aeration technique used in the upkeep of lawns and turf\" class=\"wp-image-27027\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/pt\/image-photo\/pile-plugs-soil-removed-sports-field-2134845731\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to aerate cool-season grass:\u00a0<\/strong>Early fall (September)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Warm-season grasses:\u00a0<\/strong>Don\u2019t aerate warm-season grass in fall.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Aeration relieves compacted soil.&nbsp;<strong>Compacted soil blocks air, water, and nutrients<\/strong>&nbsp;from reaching your turf\u2019s root system and makes it difficult for the roots to grow.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Lawn aeration involves poking holes in the soil to loosen it. Core aeration goes the extra mile (when compared to liquid aeration) by actually removing soil plugs from the ground.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Aeration, like dethatching, is a more stressful lawn procedure. The best time to aerate cool-season grass is in the fall. It\u2019s best to skip dethatching warm-season grass because your grass may not be able to recover before dormancy.<br><br><strong>Note:<\/strong>&nbsp;Clay soils are more prone to becoming compacted than other types of soil. Heavy foot traffic also often increases soil compaction.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-compacted-soil\/\">How to Tell if You Have Compacted Soil<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-aerate-lawn\/\">How to Aerate Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-4-control-weeds\">4. Control weeds<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":27931,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/weed-removal-1-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Photo of gloved woman hand holding weed and tool removing it from soil.\" class=\"wp-image-27931\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/photo-of-gloved-woman-hand-holding-weed-and-tool-removing-it-from-soil\/149614921\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maksim Kostenko<\/a>&nbsp;| Adobe Stock Free |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall is the best time to target prevent winter annuals and fight perennial weeds regardless of your grass type.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Winter annual weeds:&nbsp;<\/strong>To prevent winter annual weeds from germinating, you should apply&nbsp;<strong>pre-emergent herbicides<\/strong>&nbsp;when the temperatures&nbsp;<strong>drop below 70 degrees<\/strong>. Pre-emergents block these weeds before they sprout. Some winter annuals you can prevent are: henbit, annual bluegrass, and common chickweed.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>When to apply pre-emergent weed control:&nbsp;<\/strong>Early fall, when the temperatures drop to 70 degrees.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Perennial weeds:&nbsp;<\/strong>Why is fall a good time to treat perennial weeds? Throughout the fall, perennial weeds (dandelions, clovers, creeping Charlie, to name a few) will start storing nutrients in their roots to prepare for the winter. They\u2019ll also transport herbicides down to their roots during this time, which will injure or even kill them.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>When to apply post-emergent weed control:&nbsp;<\/strong>Early to mid-fall, before temperatures drop to 60 degrees.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To fight perennial weeds, apply&nbsp;<strong>post-emergent weed control<\/strong>&nbsp;before temperatures get too low. Amit Jhala and Jenny Rees, a weed management specialist and an extension educator (respectively) with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, say that&nbsp;<strong>post-emergent herbicides perform worse when it\u2019s 40 to 60 degrees<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Note: We recommend spot-treating over blanket applications of post-emergent herbicides<\/strong>, as it\u2019s healthier for your lawn, environment, and budget.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Are there ways to kill weeds without spraying?&nbsp;<\/strong>Yes, hand-pulling (you can use a dandelion digger) is the most common non-toxic way to kill weeds.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>There are also organic herbicide alternatives that act as pre- and post-emergents: corn meal gluten (pre-emergent) and chelated iron (post-emergent), for example.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/annual-vs-perennial-weeds\/\">How to Control Annual vs. Perennial Weeds<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-pre-emergent-herbicides\/\">How to Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-post-emergent-herbicides\/\">How to Apply Post-Emergent Herbicides<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-5-apply-fungicides\">5. Apply fungicides<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":13060,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/dollar_spot.jpg\" alt=\"dollar_spot\" class=\"wp-image-13060\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/scotnelson\/15489837762\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scot Nelson<\/a>&nbsp;| Flickr |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/publicdomain\/zero\/1.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Public domain<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to apply fungicides:\u00a0<\/strong>Throughout the fall, depending on the disease<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While you can use fungicides to treat lawn disease, you can also spray fungicides before the fungi attack. According to the&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/extension.msstate.edu\/publications\/the-plant-doctor-how-spray-fungicides-protect-landscapes-gardens-and-turf-residential\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mississippi State University Extension<\/a>, this is the most effective way to use fungicides. If you want to use fungicides as a preventative measure, look into topical fungicides (also called contact fungicides or protectants).<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Don\u2019t be surprised if you see&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-and-treat-grass-fungus\/\">fungal disease<\/a>&nbsp;on your lawn this fall, especially if your lawn is often wet and has a history of lawn disease. Some lawn diseases you might see this fall are:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Red thread<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Pink snow mold<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Gray snow mold<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Leaf spot and melting out<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Turfgrass rust<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Dollar spot<br><br><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>-- <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-and-treat-grass-fungus\/\">How to Identify Lawn Fungus<\/a><br>-- <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-treat-lawn-fungus\/\">How to Treat Lawn Fungus<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-6-overseed-to-fill-in-bare-spots\">6. Overseed to fill in bare spots<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":10961,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/rsz_overseeding.jpg\" alt=\"overseeding\" class=\"wp-image-10961\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/hand-planting-grass-seed-overseeding-green-136965278\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shutterstock<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Cool-season grasses:\u00a0<\/strong>Overseed or lay down cool-season sod in early to mid fall, at least 45 days before the estimated date of the first frost<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Warm-season grasses:<\/strong>\u00a0Overseed warm-season lawns in fall only if you\u2019re overseeding for winter color.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Overseeding or laying sod is the best way to fill in bare patches in your lawn, and fall is the best season to do this for cool-season grasses. Why? Cool-season grasses grow best in cooler temperatures.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Aside from looking unsightly, these bare patches are bad for your lawn\u2019s health. Weeds can move into your yard and steal nutrients from your turf.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong>&nbsp;You should overseed or lay sod at least 45 days before the estimated date of the first frost. This will give your grass enough time to establish a strong root system to get them through the winter.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-fix-patchy-grass\/\">How to Fix Patchy Grass<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-overseed-lawn\/\">How to Overseed a Lawn<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-long-after-overseeding-can-mow\/\">How Long After Overseeding Can I Mow?<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-long-does-it-take-grass-seed-to-grow\/\">How Long Does It Take New Grass Seed to Grow?<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Should I overseed my warm-season lawn?&nbsp;<\/strong>No, unless you\u2019re overseeding for winter color. Southern homeowners who want a green lawn year-round can seed annual ryegrass in the fall when the temperatures drop to 70 degrees. You\u2019ll have to care for your lawn throughout the winter though \u2013 fertilization, mowing, etc.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-7-fertilize-your-grass\">7. Fertilize your grass<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":24667,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/fertilizing-lawn.jpeg\" alt=\"one man farmer is fertilizing the lawn soil. male hand of worker, Fertilizer For Lawns in springtime for the perfect lawn. Organic lawn fertilizer in man's hand on garden\" class=\"wp-image-24667\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/one-man-farmer-is-fertilizing-the-lawn-soil-male-hand-of-worker-fertilizer-for-lawns-in-springtime-for-the-perfect-lawn-organic-lawn-fertilizer-in-man-s-hand-on-garden-background\/345334360\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ImageSine<\/a>&nbsp;| Adobe Stock |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to fertilize cool-season grass:\u00a0<\/strong>Early fall (September) and late fall (mid to late October)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Warm-season grasses:\u00a0<\/strong>Fertilize warm-season lawns in fall only if you\u2019ve overseeded with annual ryegrass for winter color.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To support your cool-season lawn\u2019s healthy growth,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-fertilize-your-lawn-2\/\">fertilize your lawn<\/a>. Fertilizer contains the three macronutrients \u2013 nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, also known as N-P-K \u2013 that all plants need to grow.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>The best time to fertilize your cool-season lawn is when the temperatures consistently hit the 70s and 60s.<\/strong>&nbsp;Don\u2019t fertilize your lawn too late or else your grass will grow past its active growth season, which can stress your grass.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you\u2019ve tested your soil this fall, you can use the results to determine what fertilizer ratio your lawn needs.&nbsp;<strong>Otherwise, you can use a balanced fertilizer or an organic fertilizer.<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In mid to late fall, you should use a winter fertilizer for your second application.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-fertilize-your-lawn-2\/\">How to Fertilize Your Lawn<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-care-fertilizer-basics-what-to-look-for-in-your-fertilizer\/\">Fertilizer Basics: What to Look for in Your Fertilizer<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-often-should-you-fertilize-lawn\/\">How Often Should You Fertilize Your Lawn?<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/fall-fertilizer-vs-winter-fertilizer\/\">What\u2019s the Difference Between Fall and Winter Fertilizer?<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-8-control-pests\">8. Control pests<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":25459,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/hairy-chinch-bug.jpg\" alt=\"hairy chinch bug on a plant\" class=\"wp-image-25459\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Hairy_Chinch_Bug_-_Blissus_leucopteru_(50594763067).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Christina Butler from Georgia<\/a>&nbsp;| Wikimedia Commons |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall is not the time to slack off when it comes to being on the lookout for and fighting lawn pests, as many insect larvae and caterpillars are still crawling around.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Some fall pests you might find in your lawn are:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Leatherjackets.<\/strong>\u00a0Treat with nematodes from September to mid-October, otherwise treat in November.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Chinch bugs.\u00a0<\/strong>Best treated in the summer, but can still be treated whenever seen in the fall.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Armyworms.\u00a0<\/strong>Treat after the ground dries up when it rains. Best treated in the late afternoon.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Cutworms<\/strong>. These are a type of caterpillar and are more of a problem in the summer, but can be targeted in the fall. Spray during late afternoon.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Mole crickets\u00a0<\/strong>are best treated in late spring to early summer. Keep an eye out for damage this fall to treat your lawn next year.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Sod webworms\u00a0<\/strong>are best treated in late summer. However, adult moths may continue to lay eggs if the temperatures stay warm throughout the season. Spray insecticide in the late afternoon.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>White grubs<\/strong>\u00a0can be treated only in early fall. They move deeper into the soil in October.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>See Related:<br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-fall-lawn-pests\/\">Common Fall Lawn Pests and How to Get Rid of Them<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-9-adjust-your-mowing-height-in-fall\">9. Adjust your mowing height in fall<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":29057,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/AdobeStock_87529345-1.jpeg\" alt=\"lawn mower in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-29057\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/images\/lawn-mower-in-the-garden\/87529345\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">irontrybex<\/a>&nbsp;| Adobe Stock Free |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to start lowering mow height:\u00a0<\/strong>Early fall<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to adjust mowing height for winter:\u00a0<\/strong>Mid to late fall, before you stop mowing (cool-season grasses) or mow less frequently (warm-season grasses)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Did you raise your mowing height in the summer? You should&nbsp;<strong>gradually lower the mowing height<\/strong>&nbsp;in early fall until you get back to the normal height, which will depend on your grass.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Note:&nbsp;<\/strong>Typically, you should have raised your mowing height by only half an inch, though; so, lower it by half an inch.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Lower your mowing height over multiple mowing sessions as you never want to cut off more than one-third of your grass blade\u2019s height.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>How often do I need to mow my lawn this fall?&nbsp;<\/strong>How often you cut your grass depends on how fast it\u2019s growing. Generally,<strong>&nbsp;you will need to mow cool-season grasses more often&nbsp;<\/strong>during peak growth season<strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Gradually adjust your mowing height again when the estimated date of the first frost draws near (for states where the first frost is annual event).<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Mow cool-season grasses lower\u00a0<\/strong>before winter to prevent snow mold and pests like voles.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Mow warm-season grasses higher\u00a0<\/strong>before winter. Mowing higher may help prevent winter injury on your warm-season lawn.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>When should I stop mowing my lawn this fall?&nbsp;<\/strong>The time of your last mow will depend on when your grass stops growing. In Southern states where warm-season grasses are common, you may never stop mowing \u2014 you just mow biweekly or monthly or when your lawn needs to be cut.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/one-third-rule-of-mowing\/\">What\u2019s the One-Third Rule of Mowing?<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-short-to-cut-grass-before-winter\/\">How Short to Cut Your Grass Before Winter<\/a><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/last-mow-of-the-season\/\">When is the Last Mow of the Season?<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-10-continue-watering-until-the-first-frost\">10. Continue watering until the first frost<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":23120,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/pexels-karolina-grabowska-4870798-1.jpg\" alt=\"water coming out of a hose, being used to water lawn\" class=\"wp-image-23120\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/photo-of-water-coming-out-of-a-spray-hose-4870798\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>When to stop watering your lawn:\u00a0<\/strong>Mid to late fall, depending on the date of the first frost and when your grass goes dormant<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Your lawn will still need water during the fall months. However, you may need to irrigate your lawn less (or even not at all) if it rains so your turf doesn\u2019t get overwatered. When the first frost draws near or if your grass has gone dormant, it\u2019s time to stop watering your grass and winterize your lawn irrigation system (which we\u2019ll cover below).<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>How do I know my grass needs water?&nbsp;<\/strong>You can always check your lawn for signs of underwatering such as:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Dry grass<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Gray, yellow, or brown grass<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Footprints left in the grass after you step on your lawn<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>How much water does my grass need this fall?&nbsp;<\/strong>This depends on the type of grass you have:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Cool-season grasses\u00a0<\/strong>need 1 to 1\u00bd inches of water a week.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Warm-season grasses\u00a0<\/strong>will need only \u00bd to 1 inch of water a week.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><br>\u2014&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-stop-watering-lawn\/\">When to Stop Watering Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-faq-about-fall-lawn-care\">FAQ about fall lawn care<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-should-you-scalp-your-lawn-in-the-fall\">Should you scalp your lawn in the fall?<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>No, you shouldn\u2019t&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-lawn-scalping\/\">scalp your lawn<\/a>&nbsp;this fall, especially if you have cool-season grass. Only Zoysia and Bermudagrass can handle scalping \u2013 and even then you should only do that in the spring under special circumstances such as a lawn renovation.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-should-you-leave-lawn-furniture-out-this-fall\">Should you leave lawn furniture out this fall?<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Near the end of fall, you should put away your lawn furniture to prevent the temperature and the elements from damaging them. Heavy lawn furniture can also damage frozen grass.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-should-you-topdress-your-lawn-this-fall\">Should you topdress your lawn this fall?<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You can topdress your lawn this fall to amend your soil. If your lawn is looking a little lackluster, you can try to topdress to see if it solves the problem. You can learn more about this in our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/topdressing-a-lawn\/\">guide to topdressing<\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-hire-a-lawn-care-pro-this-fall\">Hire a lawn care pro this fall<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Fall is not a time to neglect your lawn, especially if you have cool-season turf. In fact, it\u2019s a very busy one because you have to prepare your grass for the winter months ahead. It might be better to call a pro if you\u2019re struggling to juggle fall lawn care with your family, friends, hobbies, work, and recreation.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Lawn Love can connect you with a local lawn care professional who can keep your lawn in top shape. Here are some of the services our pros can do:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-mowing\">Lawn mowing<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-fertilization\">Lawn fertilization<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-aeration\">Lawn aeration<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">Weed control<\/a>\u00a0(as well as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/pre-emergent-weed-control\">pre-emergent weed control)<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-seeding\">Overseeding<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/yard-clean-up\">Yard cleanup<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/leaf-removal\">Leaf removal<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>So, don\u2019t hesitate to call for help if you need to. All it takes is a few clicks to hire a pro through Lawn Love.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ianr.unl.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umd.edu\/home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Maryland Extension<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/extension.msstate.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mississippi State University Extension<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Main Image Credit:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/dry-maple-leaf-lying-on-green-grass-in-the-sun\/115854133\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sid10<\/a>&nbsp;| Adobe Stock Free |&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[126],"tags":[226],"class_list":["post-584","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-tips","tag-lawn-care-tips"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/leaves.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Linda Wolfla-Thomas","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/linda-wolfla-thomas\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/584","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/122"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=584"}],"version-history":[{"count":33,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/584\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48123,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/584\/revisions\/48123"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/42995"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=584"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=584"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=584"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}