Most lawns in Bucks County, Montgomery County and Mercer County are cool-season grasses like tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. These grasses do most of their root growth in the fall, which makes September through November the best time of year to set your lawn up for next season.

1. Keep mowing at the right height

Keep mowing until the grass stops growing. Most lawns do best at about 3 to 3.5 inches. Taller grass shades out weeds and builds deeper roots.

2. Aerate and overseed thin areas

Core aeration pulls small plugs of soil so air, water and fertilizer reach the roots. Overseeding right after aeration fills in thin and worn spots. Learn more about our aeration and overseeding service.

3. Feed the roots

A fall fertilizer application helps grass store energy for winter and green up faster in spring. It is a key step in our lawn fertilization program.

4. Knock out broadleaf weeds

Dandelions, clover and other broadleaf weeds are actively pulling energy into their roots in the fall, which makes it a good time to treat them. See our weed control page.

5. Keep leaves off the grass

A thick layer of leaves blocks sunlight and holds moisture against the turf, which can lead to thin spots and disease. Rake or mulch-mow leaves often.

6. Look for grub damage

If you see brown patches where the turf pulls up like carpet, grubs may be feeding on the roots. Read our grub control page to learn what to look for.