Maintaining a cool-season lawn all year calls for smart steps in each season. This guide lists monthly jobs that help your grass stay strong and green.
Cool-Season Grasses
Cool-season grasses grow best in the northern United States. They live in states like Connecticut, Michigan, New York, Oregon, and Utah. Common types include:
- Fescue
- Kentucky Bluegrass
- Bentgrass
- Ryegrass
This guide shows month-by-month tasks for these grasses.
January – February: Dormant Care
In January and February the lawn stays quiet. Snow sits on the grass and ice forms on cold blades. Watch for heavy snow and ice that may harm the grass. Walk on frozen turf as little as possible.
March: Spring Restart
In March the air warms. Treat the soil before it hits 55°F. Use a pre-emergent spray to stop weed seeds. Next, apply a light dose of fertilizer if spring growth was strong. Then add an insect guard to keep beetles away.
April: Growth and Upkeep
In April the grass grows fast. Use a spray for weeds if they appear after the grass has been mowed twice. Feed the lawn as needed. Air the soil if you see thick layers of thatch.
May: Prepping for Heat
In May the warm air boosts grass growth. Apply a fungicide to stop leaf diseases. Mow each week and cut only one-third of the grass height at a time.
June – August: Summer Survival
In summer the heat tests the grass. Choose a feed with low nitrogen to keep the color calm. Water deeply, about one inch per week, when there is little rain. Check the lawn often for signs of disease. Rotate sprays if disease shows up.
September: Fall Revival
In September the air cools. Air the lawn and plant new seeds to fill bare spots. The fresh seeds sprout easily in cool soil. Use a pre-emergent spray when the soil cools near 70°F and then falls.
October: Ongoing Growth
In October add fertilizer to support the roots before the cold sets in. If you plant seeds, choose a starter feed to help them grow.
November – December: Dormant Prep
In November and December the lawn rests. Remove leaves and debris so the grass can breathe. Look back at the past year’s steps and plan changes for next year if tests show room to grow.
Year-Round Steps
Mow every week or so to keep the grass at a good height. Water deep and let the soil dry for a while. These small jobs help the roots grow strong and the grass stay healthy.
About Steve’s Property Maintenance
Steve’s Property Maintenance is a trusted lawn care and landscaping service provider dedicated to keeping properties in top condition across New London County, Connecticut. With a reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and top-quality service, we specialize in lawn care, yard maintenance, landscaping, power washing, and more. Our team is committed to delivering lush, healthy lawns and pristine outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial clients.
📍 Serving: Norwich, Preston, Groton, Stonington, Waterford, Mystic, and surrounding areas.
📞 Contact us at +1 (860) 847-3441 for a free quote and let us take care of your lawn care needs!
