January 6, 2022
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Heavy Snowfall on Lawns - visionary fertilization
‘Tis the season for snow! Snowmen, snow forts, and snow angels will soon pop up on neighborhood lawns, while snow fights and sledding become competitive sports for the kids (and the young at heart). High snow piles are especially tough for homeowners who’ve kept their yard green and pristine all year. With proper preparation and a keen eye throughout the winter months, your grass can be ready for the spring thaw.
Heavy Snow Can Be Good For Your Soil
Soil thrives in a nitrogen-rich environment, and snow collects atmospheric nitrogen from the air as it falls. When the snow melts, nitrogen is slowly released into the thawing soil, providing free nitrogen for your turf.
Not only is this chemical-free boost before spring beneficial, but snow also provides protection similar to mulch . Winter winds can dry out your grass, stunting growth, and snow helps insulate grass from the wind, as well as hold in much-needed moisture.
The Bad Effects of Heavy Snow Piles
Red Thread disease is also common in Southeast Michigan. As its name suggests, red thread-like fibers appear between blades of grass. Cool grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, bentgrass, or ryegrass are particularly susceptible. Similar to mold, you’ll spot Red Thread disease after the snow melts and as you clear out thatch. It grows when there is a lack of nitrogen, so using nitrogen-rich fertilizer can help clear it up.
The Ugly That Lurks Beneath The Snowfall
The damage is reversible. Rake out the dead grass as soon as the snow melts to help stimulate growth and apply season-appropriate fertilizer.
Top Four Tips When Dealing With Heavy Snow Piles
Heavy snowfall is inevitable here in Southeast Michigan. There are four things you can do throughout winter to help keep your yard damage-free.
Get a custom winter-care plan for your yard from Visionary Fertilization . Our experts are home-grown Michiganders who understand the problems heavy snow piles cause to your lawn. Visionary Fertilizations pre-winter treatment (which includes nitrogen and potassium) will also help your yard work with snow to lock in moisture, while a proper topdressing can keep your yard alive under all that snow.
