As winter settles in, many homeowners in New City, NY, wonder what’s happening to their lawns once temperatures drop. Does grass keep growing? Is there anything you should be doing during winter? Or is lawn care completely on pause until spring?
The short answer: grass doesn’t actively grow in winter, but it isn’t dead either. What happens below the surface during colder months plays a major role in how healthy your lawn will be when spring arrives — and fall preparation is the key to success.
What Happens to Grass in Winter?
During winter, grass enters a natural resting phase known as dormancy. Above-ground growth slows or stops as temperatures drop, which is why lawns often turn brown and appear lifeless. In New City’s climate, cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue commonly go dormant during colder months.
While grass blades stop growing, the lawn itself is still alive.
What About the Roots?
Even during dormancy, grass roots remain active — just at a much slower pace. When soil temperatures allow, roots continue absorbing water and nutrients, storing energy that fuels spring growth. This is why lawns that enter winter with strong, healthy roots tend to green up faster and grow thicker once warmer weather returns.
Soil temperature matters more than air temperature. On milder winter days when the ground isn’t frozen, root activity can still occur, reinforcing why proper fall preparation makes such a difference.
Why Root Health Matters Heading Into Winter
A healthy lawn starts underground. The strength of your lawn’s root system entering winter directly impacts how well it recovers in spring.
After more than 32 years caring for lawns in New City and throughout Rockland County, we consistently see the same spring issues: compacted soil, shallow roots, thin turf, and delayed green-up. In most cases, winter isn’t the problem — missed or incomplete fall preparation is.
Moisture and Soil Conditions
Roots need consistent moisture before the ground freezes. During dry fall periods, supplemental watering helps roots establish properly. During winter, occasional watering on mild days may help prevent roots from drying out, but overwatering should be avoided to prevent root damage.
Fall Aeration
Fall aeration is one of the most effective ways to improve root health. By relieving soil compaction, aeration allows better airflow, water absorption, and nutrient penetration. This gives roots room to grow deeper and stronger before dormancy, helping lawns withstand winter stress and recover more quickly in spring.
Protecting the Lawn During Winter
Winter lawns are especially vulnerable to compaction. Walking on frozen, snow-covered, or saturated grass can damage the turf and restrict airflow to the roots. Minimizing foot traffic and keeping the lawn clear of debris helps protect the root zone throughout the colder months.
Why Fall Lawn Preparation Is Critical
Fall is the most important season for lawn care. The work done before winter sets the foundation for spring success.
Fall Fertilization
Late fall fertilization supplies essential nutrients that grass stores in its roots during dormancy. This strengthens the root system without encouraging excessive top growth that could be damaged by frost. Proper fall fertilization helps lawns emerge healthier and more resilient in spring.
Aeration and Overseeding
Cool temperatures and increased moisture make fall the ideal time for aeration and overseeding. Overseeding fills in thin or bare areas while new grass establishes strong roots before winter. The result is a thicker, healthier lawn when growth resumes in spring.
Clearing Leaves and Debris
Leaves, branches, and debris should be removed before winter. Thick layers can trap moisture, block sunlight, and create conditions for mold or fungal disease. While light mulching can benefit soil health, heavy leaf buildup left over winter can suffocate grass and cause long-term damage.
Avoiding Soil Compaction
Winter soil is more susceptible to compaction, especially when combined with foot traffic or heavy snow. Avoid walking on frost-covered lawns whenever possible. Professional snow removal services can help clear walkways while reducing unnecessary stress on turf areas.
Not Sure If Your Lawn Was Properly Prepared This Fall?
A professional evaluation can identify soil compaction, nutrient deficiencies, and root health issues before spring growth begins — helping you avoid common early-season problems.
Preparing Your Lawn for Spring Success
Although grass isn’t actively growing in winter, everything happening below the surface determines spring performance. Strong roots, proper nutrients, and protected soil allow lawns to green up faster, grow thicker, and resist stress when temperatures rise.
The key to a beautiful spring lawn isn’t what you do in spring — it’s what you do in fall.
Ready to Prepare for a Healthier Spring Lawn?
Majestic Lawn Care and Landscape provides professional fall lawn care services in New City, NY, including aeration, overseeding, and fertilization designed to build strong roots before dormancy.
We also offer winter services such as snow removal and ice management to help protect your landscape from compaction damage while keeping your property safe and accessible.
With over 32 years of experience serving New City homeowners, we understand how local conditions impact lawn health through every season. Call 845-708-2988 or visit our website to learn more or request a quote.
