As summer winds down in Northern Michigan, now is the perfect time to shift your lawn care routine, preparing for fall and ensuring a vibrant start next spring. At Vidosh North, we’re all about expert, nature-inspired solutions, and here’s how we help your greenscape stay its best through seasonal transitions.
Clean Up & Clear Away
As fall begins, fallen leaves can smother grass and invite pests or disease. Rake or mulch them gently and remove debris from the lawn and landscape beds. Pull out spent annuals and trim back perennials that have finished blooming. This not only looks tidy but also prevents thatch buildup and improves airflow.
Aerate Your Lawn
Soil compaction from summer activity can restrict root growth. Aeration at this time allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to reach deeper, boosting root development and resilience over winter.
Overseed for a Thicker Lawn
Late summer is ideal for overseeding. Choose high-quality cool-season grass seed and spread it evenly across your lawn. Pair this with a light topdressing of compost-rich soil to encourage germination and create a dense, weed-resistant lawn for the next season.
Fertilize Strategically
A slow-release fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium helps roots develop strength and energy reserves for winter. Apply according to soil test recommendations to ensure balance and avoid overapplication.
Tackle Weeds While You Can
Weeds that pop up at this time are quick to set seeds. Pull or spot-treat broadleaf weeds now to reduce spring pressure and minimize next year’s workload.
Adjust Watering and Mowing Practices
As temperatures cool, gradually lower your mowing height—but don’t scalp the lawn. Keeping grass around 2–2.5 inches supports root stamina and reduces stress in cooler weather. Transition from frequent shallow watering to deeper, less frequent cycles to encourage strong root growth.
Edge, Mulch & Clean Hardscapes
Neat edges define your lawn’s border and elevate its appearance. Refresh mulch in planting beds to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Clear debris from paths, patios, and driveways so your landscape stays polished and easy to maintain through the seasons.
Soil Testing: Know Before You Apply
A soil test now gives clarity on pH and nutrient levels. Adjusting soil chemistry early gives amendments time to take effect and helps tailor fertilizer to your lawn’s needs.
Why These Steps Matter
With the long, cold Northern Michigan winter ahead, taking steps now helps your lawn build strong root systems, resist common seasonal diseases, and emerge lush and healthy in spring. Plus, it keeps your landscape looking sharp as garden beds transition into dormancy.
Let Vidosh North Help
Whether you’re tackling this yourself or looking for hands-on expertise, our team offers custom landscape solutions, including seasonal lawn care planning and execution. We combine horticultural know-how with thoughtful design to keep your property beautiful through every season.
Contact us to schedule an end-of-summer visit. Let's get your lawn fall-ready together!