As temperatures drop and leaves begin to fall, your lawn is preparing for a long winter rest. Fall is one of the most important seasons for lawn care and the right steps now will determine how healthy, hardy, and vibrant your grass looks next spring. Here’s how Wasson’s experts approach fall lawn care for Indiana homes.

1. Aerate to Relieve Compaction

Summer foot traffic and heat compact your soil. Fall aeration opens up pathways for oxygen, nutrients, and moisture to reach grass roots, helping your lawn recover and strengthen before winter dormancy.

Pro Tip: For best results, schedule core aeration when soil is slightly moist but not soggy.

2. Fertilize for Root Growth

Fall fertilization fuels strong root systems that store nutrients all winter long. Use a slow-release, nitrogen-rich formula to encourage deep, healthy growth, not just top-layer greening.

Wasson’s Advantage: Our custom fertilizer programs are tailored to each individual lawn, East-Central Indiana’s soil, and seasonal cycles. Learn more about our lawn care programs

3. Overseed Bare Spots

Fall is the ideal time to overseed thin or patchy areas. Cooler air and warm soil help new seeds establish quickly before frost sets in.

4. Adjust Your Mowing Height

Gradually lower your mowing height in the fall to prevent snow mold and disease, but avoid scalping. A final mow at around 2.5 inches is usually ideal for Indiana lawns.

5. Keep Watering

Even as temperatures cool, lawns need about one inch of water weekly until the ground freezes. Proper hydration helps roots absorb fall fertilizer effectively.

6. Clean Up Leaves Regularly

A blanket of wet leaves can suffocate grass and invite pests. Mulch lightly or rake weekly to keep your lawn breathing. Prefer complete leaf removal? Get scheduled with Wasson Landscape Maintenance and we’ll take care of it for you!

Ready for a lush, resilient lawn next spring? Let Wasson handle your fall preparation with our tailored Lawn & Landscape Services. Request your free lawn evaluation today.