Winter in North Florida doesn’t mean bare trees and snowdrifts, but our lawns still notice the seasonal shift. Cooler nights, shorter days, and less rainfall affect grass health, and how you care for it now sets the stage for a strong spring. Here’s how to keep your lawn looking its best through the winter months.
Adjust your mowing
As growth slows, raise the mower deck slightly and cut less frequently. Never remove more than one-third of the blade at a time. Taller grass helps shade the soil, retain moisture, and protect roots during occasional cold snaps.
Water wisely
Overwatering in winter is a common mistake. Grass needs less hydration when it isn’t actively growing. Water once every 10 to 14 days if there’s no rain, and always in the morning so moisture has time to evaporate. Overwatering can lead to fungus, something no lawn needs.
Fertilize with care
Skip nitrogen-heavy fertilizers this season, as they encourage top growth the lawn can’t sustain in cooler temperatures. Instead, apply a potassium-rich fertilizer in late fall to strengthen roots and improve cold tolerance.
Watch for weeds
Winter is prime time for invaders to sneak in. Pre-emergent herbicides applied in early fall help, but hand-pulling or spot treatments may still be necessary to keep weeds under control.
Overseed for color
If you crave a green lawn year-round, consider overseeding with ryegrass in fall. It germinates quickly, thrives in cooler temperatures, and gives your yard a lush, green look until spring.
Protect against pests
Even in winter, chinch bugs and mole crickets can damage lawns. Keep an eye out for irregular brown patches or thinning grass, and address problems early with the right treatments.
Rest easy
Dormant lawns don’t need constant fussing. Think of winter as a maintenance season: keep things tidy, avoid overwatering, and focus on setting your lawn up for a healthy spring comeback.
Liberty Landscape Supply is Northeast Florida’s full-service garden center and landscape partner with four retail locations serving Jacksonville (North Main Street and San Jose Boulevard), Fernandina Beach, and St. Augustine, plus delivery across the region. From plants, trees, soil, mulch, rock, and gravel to hardscapes, pottery, lighting, irrigation, design support, and expert advice, Liberty helps homeowners and pros plan, shop, and install with confidence — making landscape projects easy.
Media Contact:
Drew Peterson
Digital Marketing Specialist
drew@libertylandscapesupply.com
