Landscape Pitfalls of a Mild Georgia Winter

If you don’t care for frigid temperatures, piles of snow and long periods of frost, you’ll appreciate living in Georgia. However, our mild winters aren’t always the best for turf and shrubs. In fact, warmer weather during the “winter” months can pose detrimental threats to your landscaping.

When the cooler temperatures approach, it is natural for your grass and trees to go into dormancy. This is nature’s way of protecting itself against the harsher elements. During dormancy, your grass stops growing and only absorbs very limited nutrients.

If the winter is mild, however, and temperatures rise early and erratically during this hibernation period, your grasses and shrubs may wake up prematurely. This may cause them to try and grow again before spring has truly begun. During mild winters in Georgia, it is not uncommon to have a warm “spring-like” day followed by a deep freeze the following week. Your landscape will have a very difficult time understanding this fluctuating weather.

The Problem with Unexpected Warmth During Winter Months

When temperatures rise and fall during winter, it can put stress on the soil, especially if it hasn’t been prepared with the right nutrients. Poor nutrition in your soil often results in dead spots throughout your lawn and struggling shrubs.

In addition to poor soil and freezing blooms, lawn disease is another threat during mild winters. While lawn disease is not typically a concern in a cold, low-moisture environment, these fungal infections may present themselves if there are days of mild warmth and humidity. Unfortunately, your dormant and unprepared grass will be less likely to fight off these diseases. The same can be true about lawn pests and your shrubs during a mild winter.

Need help protecting your landscape during a mild Georgia winter? Pannone’s Landscaping & Lawn Pros is here to offer prompt, affordable and knowledgeable lawn services though all seasons of the year – even when your grass is trying to sleep.