When it comes to lawn care in Madison, fall can be a bit confusing! Plenty of well-meaning lawn advice floats around, but not all of it actually works – and some could even hurt your grass as it heads into winter. That’s why we’re here to clear up some of the most common myths and help you get your lawn truly ready for the season.

Below are five myths we hear all the time in the fall. Let’s set the record straight so your lawn is set up for a healthy winter and an even healthier spring!

1. “You Don’t Need to Water Your Lawn in Fall”

With cooler temperatures, it’s easy to assume that your lawn won’t need much water anymore. But while fall often brings some natural rainfall, Madison lawns still need some regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keeping your lawn hydrated as it heads into winter helps the grass build stronger roots, giving it a better shot at surviving the freeze. Remember, if the grass is still growing, it still needs some water!

2. “Fallen Leaves Are Great for Insulating Grass”

You might hear that leaving a thick blanket of fall leaves on the lawn helps insulate it over the winter. While a layer of leaves can be pretty, it can do more harm than good if left unattended. A thick covering blocks sunlight, traps moisture, and can lead to mold or mildew growth, potentially damaging the grass below. So, as tempting as it is to let those leaves stay where they fall, a regular rake-up will keep your lawn healthier in the long run.

3. “You Shouldn’t Fertilize Until Spring”

Spring is when most people think about fertilizer, but if you wait until then, you’re missing out! Fall fertilization is key to lawn health because it strengthens grass roots before winter dormancy. By giving your lawn a “nutrient boost” in fall, you’re setting it up to emerge green, lush, and ready to thrive in spring. Think of fall fertilizing as helping your lawn store up energy to survive the winter chill.

4. “Aeration and Seeding Are Only for Spring”

Another common misconception is that lawn aeration and seeding should only happen in spring. In reality, fall is one of the best times for these tasks! Cooler weather and frequent rainfall create ideal conditions for new seeds to germinate, while aerating breaks up compacted soil, improving root access to nutrients. Aeration and overseeding in fall help thicken your lawn, so it comes back full and vibrant next year.

5. “The Last Mow of the Season Doesn’t Matter”

Many think that the last mow of the season is no big deal, but actually, it’s one of the most important! Setting your mower height just right (usually 2.5-3 inches) helps your grass prepare for winter dormancy without risking mold from being too tall or frost damage from being too short. This last mow will also give your lawn a neat, finished look for fall while setting it up for a strong start in spring.

Trust Friske Lawn Care to Bust Those Myths for You!

Lawn care can feel overwhelming, especially with so much contradictory advice out there. If you’re feeling unsure about what’s best for your yard this fall, Friske Lawn Care is here to help. We’ll work with you to create a fall lawn care plan based on what actually works – no myths, just science-backed techniques that will keep your lawn thriving year-round. Contact us today to get your lawn ready for winter the right way!