As the temperatures drop and Michigan’s first snow approaches, now is the time to prepare your lawn for winter. A little care this fall means a greener, healthier yard when spring arrives. Modern Hardware has the tools, supplies, and guidance you need to make the job easy.
1. Give Your Lawn a Final Feeding
Tip: Apply a slow-release fall lawn fertilizer to strengthen roots and store nutrients for the winter months. This helps grass bounce back lush and green in the spring.
Check out Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard to keep your grass healthy going into winter. This specialized formula builds strong, deep roots for a healthier, greener lawn next spring, and works on any grass type. It’s designed to deliver nutrients that help your yard bounce back from summer heat, drought, and heavy activity.
2. Aerate to Relieve Compaction
Tip: Aerating allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots before the ground freezes. Even a quick once-over with a core aerator can make a big difference.
3. Overseed Bare Spots
Tip: Fall is one of the best times to overseed in Michigan. By filling in thin or bare areas now, you’ll help prevent weeds from taking hold in spring and encourage a denser, more resilient lawn. Overseeding also boosts color and overall turf health.
Try this versatile perennial grass seed mixture from Best Garden, a reliable choice for patching bare spots or establishing a fuller lawn. This mix thrives in conditions ranging from moderate shade to full sun, providing a lush, all-around turf. It’s ideal for both spring and fall planting, offers early spring green-up, and keeps its rich color late into the season. The blend is disease resistant, absorbs more water for stronger growth, and is 99.9% weed free.
4. Keep Leaves Under Control
Tip: If you do only one thing to prepare your lawn for winter, make it managing the leaves. A thick, soggy layer of leaves can smother your grass, invite pests, and promote lawn diseases. Clearing them regularly allows your lawn to breathe, soak up sunlight, and store nutrients before the snow arrives.
Our Truper Tru Tough Clog-Free Leaf Rake (on sale this month!) is built for the job. With a wide 30-inch head, it easily handles large amounts of leaves, grass clippings, twigs, pine needles, acorns, and more. The 48-inch hardwood handle with a soft-grip overmold helps reduce fatigue and keep your hands comfortable, while the lightweight design makes it a great choice for both all-day yardwork and quick weekend cleanups.
5. Protect Vulnerable Plants & Outdoor Features
Tip: Michigan winters can be especially tough on more than just your lawn. Young trees, shrubs, and evergreens benefit from protective wraps to guard against heavy snow and windburn. It’s also important to winterize outdoor plumbing: drain hoses, cover faucets, and protect gutters to avoid costly freeze damage.
Be sure to check out this Protective Garden Cover and this Spun Bond Plant Protector - both on sale this Month at Modern Hardware!
Modern Hardware carries a full line of Frost King® products designed to protect your home from harsh winter weather. From gutter guards and insulation to faucet covers and pipe wraps, Frost King has reliable solutions to keep water out and ice damage at bay.
Stop by Modern Hardware today!
Winter may be long in Michigan, but your lawn doesn’t have to suffer. With the right preparation now, you’ll thank yourself when spring rolls around. Stop by Modern Hardware for the tools, fertilizers, and supplies you need to get your yard winter-ready.
