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The Impact of Heavy Snow on Lawn Health in Chicago

As winter blankets the Chicago area with deep snows, homeowners are faced with unexpected challenges concerning their lawns. Dr. Green Services, a trusted leader in lawn care, has issued a vital alert about the significant soil compaction caused by this season's heavy snow cover. This issue not only affects the aesthetic appeal of lawns but also poses serious risks to their overall health as spring approaches.

Understanding Soil Compaction

Soil compaction occurs when the soil particles are pressed together, reducing the spaces between them, making it difficult for air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of grass. This winter, homeowners have reported more than a foot of snow sitting atop their lawns, leading to increased pressure on the soil. The combination of heavy snow and the ongoing freeze/thaw cycles has resulted in tighter soil structures that inhibit the vital activities of root systems.

As temperatures fluctuate, the moisture in the soil undergoes repetitive freezing and thawing, which further locks the soil in place. In addition, foot traffic on snowy lawns exacerbates this problem, as the weight of individuals walking on snow-covered turf compresses the soil even more.

Symptoms to Watch For

Once the snow begins to melt, homeowners may notice various symptoms indicating that the soil compaction has taken a toll on their lawns:

• - Slow or Uneven Green-Up: Expect to see patches of grass struggling to green up as the season changes.
• - Thin or Patchy Turf: The density of the lawn will be compromised, appearing sparse in some areas.
• - Pooling Water: With restricted movement of moisture, water may accumulate in some areas instead of draining effectively.
• - Higher Risk of Lawn Fungus: The conditions may also promote fungal diseases, putting lawns at further risk.
• - Weak Recovery from Winter Damage: Grass may not bounce back as robustly as expected after the stress of winter.

These alarming signs indicate that deep underneath the surface, compacted soil is limiting the movement of oxygen and moisture essential for recovery.

The Solution: Liquid Aeration

To combat these issues, Dr. Green Services advocates for liquid aeration as a clean and effective way to alleviate soil compaction. Unlike traditional mechanical or core aeration that can struggle in muddy and waterlogged conditions often present in the spring, liquid aeration works by acting at a molecular level to expand and loosen compacted areas without leaving behind messy cores. This method helps to restore airflow to the root system, boosts water absorption, and accelerates turf recovery after being pressed down for months.

Proactive Steps for Homeowners

Dr. Green Services strongly recommends homeowners take the following steps to protect their lawns:
1. Avoid Walking on Snow-Covered Turf: Limiting foot traffic this winter will help reduce further compaction.
2. Monitor for Pooling Water: Keeping an eye on areas where water tends to accumulate can help address drainage issues promptly.
3. Schedule Spring Liquid Aeration: Planning for this service early ensures that your lawn gets the timely treatment it needs.
4. Watch for Fungal Growth: Keeping an eye out for signs of fungus can prevent more extensive damage.

Spring Support from Dr. Green Services

In light of this challenging winter, Dr. Green Services is extending an offer of free spring liquid aeration for all customers. With four decades of lawn care experience in the Chicago area, the company is focused on providing science-backed solutions to ensure that area lawns recover powerfully come spring.

Homeowners are encouraged to act now, taking proactive measures to protect their turf health. As the snow begins to melt, swift action can make all the difference for your lawn’s success this season. For more guidance or to schedule your spring treatments, contact the experts at Dr. Green Services — because a thriving lawn starts with healthy soil.

Contact Information
Name: Ryan Van Haastrecht
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 800-465-2934