When most people think of fall, they picture colorful leaves, crisp air, and dormant lawns. But in Florida, fall looks a little different. Our subtropical climate means grass is still actively growing, pests are still lingering, and the humidity can spark fungal problems. Taking a few smart steps now will keep your yard green and healthy through the season — and set it up for success heading into winter.
Here are five fall lawn care tips every Florida homeowner should know.
1. Adjust Your Mowing Height
As temperatures cool slightly, lawns grow more slowly. You can raise your mower blades about half an inch higher than summer settings. This helps protect the grass roots and keeps the lawn looking lush instead of stressed.
Clements tip: Our technicians often see lawns cut too short in the fall. A slightly taller cut encourages deeper roots, which helps your lawn withstand disease and dry spells.
2. Watch Out for Fungal Diseases
Florida’s humid fall weather can trigger fungal outbreaks like brown patch or dollar spot. These often show up as circular brown or yellow patches that spread quickly if untreated.
Water in the early morning instead of at night.
Avoid overwatering — fungi thrive in soggy soil.
Keep lawn equipment clean to prevent spreading spores.
Clements tip: If you notice suspicious spots, we can diagnose whether it’s fungus, insects, or something else — and treat it before it spreads.
3. Keep Weeds in Check
Dollarweed, crabgrass, and sedges often thrive in the fall. Hand-pulling small patches works, but persistent weeds usually need targeted treatments.
Clements tip: Our lawn programs include weed prevention designed for Florida’s sandy soils, so we can help stop weeds before they take over.
4. Strengthen Roots with Nutrients
Fall is a key time to build root strength for cooler months ahead. Fertilizers with the right balance of nutrients (especially potassium) help grass store energy and stay resilient.
Clements tip: We tailor fertilizer applications to your lawn type — whether it’s St. Augustine, Bermuda, or Zoysia — so it gets exactly what it needs this season.
5. Keep an Eye on Pests
Even though summer is winding down, chinch bugs, grubs, and armyworms can still damage grass in the fall. Look for thinning areas, irregular brown patches, or birds pecking at the lawn (a sign they’re eating pests in the soil).
Clements tip: If pests are spotted during one of our inspections, we can treat them right away — preventing small problems from turning into major lawn damage.
Final Thoughts
Fall in Florida isn’t a time to take a break from lawn care — it’s a chance to protect your investment and give your grass a head start before winter. With a little attention to mowing, watering, nutrients, weeds, and pests, your yard can stay green and healthy year-round.
And if you’d like professional help, Clements Pest Control & Environmental Services is here to support you. From free inspections to tailored lawn programs, we know what Florida lawns need to thrive.