Preparing Your Yard For A Freeze
Here in Texas, we are not used to below freezing temperatures showing up on our thermometers. However, with recent winter weather blowing into the Lone Star State, it’s important to prepare your lawn for freezing temperatures. Here are some suggestions for winterizing techniques to protect your lawn and lawn equipment.
Water 24 Hours Before A Freeze
Though it might seem weird, it is better to water before a big freeze than not at all. However, in order for it to be beneficial to your lawn’s health, it is best to water grass at least 24 hours before freezing temperatures begin. Why, you ask? If grass is dehydrated and brittle during a freeze, it can be much more stressful on blades than if it was watered the day before. Also, a good watering helps to insulate the roots during a freeze.
Winterize Your Water Hose
It often does not occur to Texans to protect their water hoses from freezing temperatures, costing them money to replace damaged hoses when the big freeze rolls in. However the process is fairly simple and easy to do. To winterize a water hose, follow these steps:
- Turn off water to outside faucet. Some shutoff valves may be inside the home.
- Drain remaining water out of pipes. Turn on faucet so any water exits through the hose.
- Drain remaining water in hose. Remove hose from faucet and tip it to remove any remaining water.
- Coil and hang. Coil hose into rounds about 2 ft in diameter. Hang coiled hose on hanger made specifically for hoses.
Winterize Your Sprinkler System
Just like with hoses, Texans also forget to protect sprinkler systems from freezing temperatures. This is a very simplified guide, and it may not apply to all systems. Contact your sprinkler system provider for a more detailed explanation.
- Shut off source of water. Find your isolation valve (usually next to the Pressure Vacuum Breaker), and turn it 90 degrees to turn off water flow.
- Open PVB petcocks. Turn all petcocks 90 degrees to open.
- Turn on any zone for 10 minutes. This will vent the remaining underground water.
Sod Grass Experts
If you have any questions about lawn care during winter months, contact the sod grass experts at The Grass Outlet. We would love to hear from you! Call today!
