🍁 Fall Lawn Care Tips for Homeowners: How to Prep Your Lawn for Winter the DIY Way

The McGill Group LLC
Aug 7
2 min read

A neatly manicured lawn with symmetrical mowing lines creates a picturesque setting under autumn-hued trees in a suburban neighborhood.

🍂 Why Fall Lawn Care & Prep Matters for Maryland & DC Homeowners

Before you store the mower and call it a year, don’t overlook one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your curb appeal: fall lawn care and preparation. A little effort in the fall sets your lawn up for success when spring rolls around.

At The McGill Group LLC, we help homeowners like you improve everything from rooftops to basements — and yes, even the lawn in between matters. We believe a home’s exterior reflects the care that goes into everything inside. Let’s walk through a DIY step-by-step guide to winterize your lawn the smart way.

✅ Step-by-Step: Get Your Lawn Ready for Winter

1. Keep Mowing — Just Lower the Blade

Continue mowing every 10–14 days.
Lower mower height to 2–2.5" for the final cut.
This prevents snow mold and keeps grass disease-free.

2. Rake or Mulch Leaves Weekly

Don’t wait for leaf piles — remove regularly.
Use a rake or mulching mower to break leaves into nutrients.
Avoid smothering your grass before winter dormancy.

3. Aerate the Lawn

Rent a plug aerator from Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Aerate in a criss-cross pattern for deep soil penetration.
Improves airflow, root strength, and spring green-up.

💬 Pro Insight: We aerate before most landscaping and hardscape projects to help drainage and prep healthy growth.

4. Overseed Thin or Patchy Areas

After aerating, apply a cool-season grass seed.
Water daily for 2 weeks to ensure germination.
Look for seed blends rated for Maryland zones.

5. Apply Fall Fertilizer

Use a slow-release, high-potassium fall fertilizer.
Encourages root growth over blade growth.
Always water it in to prevent burn.

6. Edge & Clean Beds

Edge garden beds, sidewalks, and driveways.
Pull weeds and trim back overgrowth.
Clean lines = a professional look all winter.

🏠 How It Benefits Your Home

Benefit	Impact
Healthier Lawn	Stronger roots survive harsh MD/DC winters
Less Spring Work	Fewer weeds, diseases, or reseeding needed
Improved Curb Appeal	Adds beauty & value to your home year-round
Cost Savings	Prevents major repairs like lawn regrading

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Looking for more seasonal homeowner checklists?We post tips, renovation guides, and advice tailored for property owners in Prince George’s County, Southern Maryland, and DC Metro.

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Let The McGill Group Help You Protect & Improve What Matters Most — Your Home.

Thinking beyond the lawn this fall? Whether it’s a roof replacement, basement renovation, or kitchen remodel, our team is ready to bring your vision to life.

🎯 Schedule your free consultation today📞 Call Now or 📩 Message Us Here