As the winter season settles in, it’s not just the chilly temperatures that homeowners need to contend with. Winter lawn pests can be a silent threat, wreaking havoc on your once vibrant lawn. Stay a step ahead with preventive steps and keep them at bay, ensuring your lawn stays healthy and resilient throughout the colder months.

Identifying Winter Lawn Pests

White Grubs

White grubs, the larvae of beetles, are notorious for damaging lawns during winter. They feed on grassroots, causing brown patches and weakened turf. Identifying these pests early is crucial for effective control.

Voles

Often mistaken for mice, voles can cause substantial damage by tunneling through the grass and gnawing on roots and bark. Their activity is particularly noticeable in the winter when other food sources become scarce.

Snow Mold

A common fungal disease that appears in winter, snow mold can create unsightly patches on your lawn. It thrives in moist conditions, making it essential to address excess moisture in your lawn.

Strategies for Winter Pest Control

1. Aerate Your Lawn: Aerating your lawn in the fall helps prevent white grub infestations by disrupting the soil and making it less appealing for egg-laying beetles. This practice also enhances oxygen flow to grassroots, promoting a healthier lawn. Never aerated your lawn before? Lawnhiro offers on-demand aeration services during the warmer months.
2. Winter Fertilization: Applying a balanced winter fertilizer helps strengthen your grass, making it more resistant to pests. Look for a fertilizer with higher levels of potassium, which aids in cold tolerance.
3. Consistent Watering: While it may seem like you should stop watering when it’s cold outside, you can avoid winter dehydration by continuing to water your lawn in the winter. Only water when the temperature is above freezing, which will allow the water to penetrate the soil.
4. Proper Grass Height: Have your lawn mowed to an optimal height prior to the start of winter. Taller grass helps deter voles and provides better insulation against extreme temperatures. Need help with mowing? Our providers are equiped with their own equipment, to provide you with a proper mow each time.
5. Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators like birds, which feed on pests like voles. Installing bird feeders or creating bird-friendly environments can contribute to a healthier balance in your lawn ecosystem.

Partnering with Lawnhiro for Winter Care

As you take steps to protect your lawn from winter pests, it’s important to consider assistance for the labor-intensive tasks. If snow removal is on your winter to-do list, don’t hesitate to get a quote from Lawnhiro. Our providers will work hard to effectively clear your property, ensuring that your home remains safe and snow-free.