Transitioning Your Southern Lawn Into Fall

As September rolls in, the blazing summer heat begins to ease, and your lawn starts preparing for its seasonal slowdown. In our area, warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine are still active, but just barely. This month is all about helping your lawn finish strong and get ready for cooler days ahead.

What’s Happening Underground in September?

Even though your lawn may still look lush, the real action is happening below the surface:

– Root Fortification: Grass is shifting its energy from top growth to strengthening roots. This is your last chance to support root health before dormancy kicks in.

– Carbohydrate Storage: Roots begin stockpiling nutrients to fuel spring green-up. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers now—opt for balanced or potassium-rich blends to support root development.

– Soil Still Matters: Soil temperatures remain warm enough to support growth, so aeration and light feeding can still be effective if done early in the month.

Adjusting Mower Height & Frequency for Fall

September is the pivot point for your mowing routine. Here’s how to adjust:

Lower Your Mower Height

Why: Taller grass helps insulate the soil, retain moisture, and protect the crown from early frost.

Recommended Heights:

– Bermuda: 2.5–3 inches

– Zoysia: 2–2.5 inches

– St. Augustine: 2.5-3.5 inches

Reduce Mowing Frequency

Why: Growth slows as daylight shortens, so mowing too often can stress the turf.

How Often: Shift to mowing every 10–14 days, depending on rainfall and growth rate.

Keep Blades Sharp

Sharp blades ensure clean cuts, which reduce the risk of disease, especially important as the lawn becomes more vulnerable in cooler weather.

Bonus Tips for Healthy Fall Transition

– Watering: Cut back on irrigation as rainfall increases. Overwatering in fall can lead to fungal issues.

– Leaf Control: Don’t let fallen leaves smother your turf. Mulch them with your mower or rake regularly to prevent decay and disease.

– Weed Watch: Apply pre-emergent herbicides early in the month to prevent winter weeds like Poa annua and chickweed.

Your lawn may be slowing down, but your care shouldn’t. September is a great month to set the stage for a strong comeback in spring. With just a few adjustments, you’ll help your turf transition smoothly into fall and emerge healthier next year.