That’s right folks, the official start of winter is almost upon us. ‘Tis the season for tobogganing, ice skating, and cups of warm hot chocolate. In many parts of Canada, it’s also the season when temperatures drop and lawn’s gets covered in blankets of white, fluffy snow.
Are you curious about what happens to your lawn in winter? If so, this is the blog for you.
Winter kill is a common term used to describe turf damage that takes place during winter. Most people assume winter kill only happens when snow is covering the lawn, however that is not true. Lawns covered with snow for months at a time certainly do see their fair share of turf damage, but snow alone is not the only factor that causes damage.
Region by Region
Depending on what part of the country you live in, the amount of snow coverage and the length of time the lawn is covered by snow can be significantly different region by region. The majority of Canada, with the exception of coastal regions in British Columbia, regularly experience consistent snowfall and snow coverage for the better part of 3–4 months (specifically December through March). With that being said, these areas can be faced with winter kill damage that’s caused by snow coverage depending on the year.
Generally speaking, when a lawn is covered with snow vs. not being covered during the harsh winter months, it’s usually regarded as a positive, considering the lasting effects other factors can have on a lawn. Consistent snow coverage acts similar to a blanket in that it helps insulate the grass plants and their roots from cold temperature extremes. Exposure to these temperature extremes, combined with wind, ice, and freeze/thaw conditions can be very damaging without snow coverage!
A lawn can experience a range of symptoms during the Winter months, including;
- Ice damage
- Low temperature kill
- Crown Hydration
- Winter desiccation
- Salt damage
- Snow mold damage
- Snow plow damage
- Voles damage
Contributed by: Brent Szotak, Landscaper and foremost lawncare expert