Middle Tennessee's climate gives us four distinct seasons, and each one requires a different approach to lawn care. Here is a season-by-season guide to keeping your Gallatin, Hendersonville, or Sumner County lawn healthy and attractive all year long.
Spring (March - May)
Spring is when your lawn wakes up from winter dormancy. This is the most important time to set your lawn up for success.
- Start mowing when grass reaches 3-4 inches. Set your mower to the highest setting for the first few cuts.
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide in early March before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees. This prevents crabgrass and other weeds.
- Aerate if your lawn has compacted soil. Spring aeration allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots.
- Overseed bare patches in early spring while temperatures are still cool.
- Begin a fertilization schedule once grass is actively growing.
Summer (June - August)
Tennessee summers bring heat, humidity, and the potential for drought stress. Your lawn care strategy should focus on resilience.
- Mow higher — keep grass at 3.5-4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, retains moisture, and crowds out weeds.
- Water deeply but infrequently — aim for 1 inch per week, applied in one or two sessions rather than daily light watering.
- Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal issues.
- Avoid heavy fertilization during peak heat. A light application in early June is usually sufficient.
- Watch for grubs and pests that thrive in warm soil.
Fall (September - November)
Fall is the best time to invest in your lawn's long-term health. Cool temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal growing conditions.
- Overseed in September — this is the single best thing you can do for a thin or struggling lawn in Middle Tennessee.
- Fertilize in October with a fall blend to build root strength before winter.
- Continue mowing at a regular height until growth stops.
- Rake or mulch leaves — a thick layer of leaves will smother your grass.
- Aerate before overseeding for best results.
Winter (December - February)
Your lawn is dormant, but there is still work to do to prepare for spring.
- Keep the lawn clear of debris, furniture, and toys that can damage dormant grass.
- Sharpen your mower blades so they are ready for the first spring cut.
- Plan your spring strategy — schedule aeration, seeding, and fertilization now.
- Trim shrubs while they are dormant for easier shaping and faster spring growth.
Need Help with Your Lawn?
Watkins Lawn Care provides professional lawn maintenance, landscaping, and shrub care throughout the Gallatin area. Call us at (615) 995-8220 for a free estimate, or reach out online.