Winter Lawn Care Tips for Georgia

Dormancy Is Normal — Not Death

When bermuda, zoysia, and centipede go dormant in Middle Georgia, they turn brown. This is completely normal and not a sign of disease or death. Dormant grass is still alive at the root level. The biggest mistake homeowners make is over-watering dormant lawns or applying fertilizer in an attempt to green them up. Both waste resources and can cause real problems.

• Do not fertilize dormant warm-season grass. It cannot absorb nutrients while dormant.
• Reduce watering significantly but do not stop entirely — one deep watering every 2 to 3 weeks during dry spells prevents root desiccation.
• Avoid heavy foot traffic on dormant lawns. Frozen grass blades snap and damage the crown.

Winter Weed Control

If you missed the fall pre-emergent window, winter weeds are already germinating. Post-emergent spot treatments can knock back active winter weeds like henbit, chickweed, and poa annua. Apply on days when temperatures are above 50 degrees for best herbicide activity. A second pre-emergent application in January can still catch late-germinating cool-season weeds.

Watch for Large Patch Development

Large patch disease actually starts in fall and continues through winter when soil temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees. If you notice expanding circular patches of thinning or yellowing grass at the edges, large patch may be the culprit. Fungicide applications in late fall and early winter can slow the spread. Avoid excess nitrogen in fall, which feeds the fungus.

Plan Ahead for Spring

Winter is the best time to plan your spring lawn care strategy. Review what worked last year and what did not. Schedule your pre-emergent application window. If your lawn has chronic bare spots or drainage issues, winter is the time to address grading, irrigation repairs, or soil amendments before the growing season starts.