Fall Lawn Care: Overseeding, Fertilizing & Prepping for Spring

Why October is prime time for lawn work that pays off next year

October is one of the best months to give your lawn the attention it deserves. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and consistent moisture create the ideal conditions for new grass seed to germinate and for roots to grow strong before winter sets in. A little effort now means a greener, thicker lawn come spring.

Start by giving your lawn a good clean-up. Rake away fallen leaves and debris so sunlight can reach the grass and prevent disease. If your lawn feels compacted, consider core aeration to loosen the soil and allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeply. This is especially helpful if you plan to overseed.

Overseeding fills in bare spots and thickens existing turf. Choose a high-quality grass seed suited to your region and spread it evenly over the lawn. After seeding, lightly rake to help the seed make contact with the soil, then water gently but consistently. Keep the surface moist for the first couple of weeks to encourage germination.

Fertilizing in fall is another key step to ensure a healthy start next spring. A slow-release fertilizer formulated for fall feeding, such as Jonathan Green Winter Survival, provides the nutrients your lawn needs to build strong roots before going dormant. This late-season feeding helps grass bounce back faster after winter stress.

October is also a good time to tackle weeds. Applying a selective weed control product before frost prevents unwanted growth from taking over in spring. And remember, healthy soil is the foundation of a great lawn — enrich it with Espoma Organic Lawn Food to improve soil structure and microbial activity naturally.

If you haven’t already, give your lawn one last mow before winter. Lower the mower blade slightly to prevent matting but avoid cutting too short, which can expose roots to the cold. Finally, clean and store your lawn tools so they’re ready for spring.

Taking these steps now — overseeding, fertilizing, and simple fall maintenance — will reward you with a lush, vibrant lawn when the snow melts. It’s a small investment of time that pays big dividends next year.

Visit Lakeview Nurseries for top-quality grass seed, fertilizers, and expert advice on fall lawn care. You’ll find trusted brands like Jonathan Green, Espoma, and SunGro soils to help keep your lawn in top shape year-round.
Download our free app at https://apjl.app/lakeview for seasonal tips, reminders, and special offers —
from Michelle and the Plant Geeks at Lakeview Nurseries.