Understanding Lawn Dormancy and Winter Protection

During the coldest months of the year, your lawn enters a natural state of rest known as dormancy. Lawn dormancy occurs when growth slows down or stops entirely due to low soil temperatures and reduced sunlight. For cool-season grasses common in Ohio, like Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue, this process is completely normal and even beneficial. The brownish or straw-colored appearance of dormant grass often causes concern, but it doesn’t mean the lawn is dead. Instead, your turf is conserving energy to survive the winter and bounce back when conditions improve.

Winter lawn care becomes especially important during this period. Although your lawn isn’t actively growing, it’s still vulnerable to damage from heavy foot traffic, frozen soil compaction, and the misuse of ice melt products. Salts and chemicals from de-icers can leach into your yard and cause long-term root damage. It’s a good idea to create designated walkways and use lawn-safe products if de-icing is necessary. Keeping the lawn clear of debris and heavy snow piles also supports proper airflow and prevents mold or disease from developing.

At EverGreen Lawns, we believe that a beautiful spring lawn starts with smart winter lawn care and an understanding of lawn dormancy. We help our customers protect their turf during Ohio’s harsh winters by offering guidance and scheduling early spring services. Now is the perfect time to plan for fertilization, core aeration, and overseeding so your lawn is prepared to thrive when warmer weather returns. A proactive approach today ensures your grass emerges stronger, greener, and more vibrant come spring.